Many scholars, not only philologists, but also historians, philosophers, psychologists explored the origin of the wandering plot of the wizard at different times and from various perspectives. This article examines the emergence of the story of a pact with the devil into Manns work. The study based on not only the examination and analysis of existing ideas about this motif for various authors Marlowe, Balzac, Brusov, Goethe and others. It offers a fresh perspective on the transformation of a medieval legend in Manns work. The aim of the study is to explore the influence of this legend on the author. The task is to show that no shifts in culture, era, religion, geography, genres or any noticeable changes in the authors views, style, or language could alter the core of this plot that is for achieving a goal the character makes a pact with Satan. Manns novel reimagines Faust story, placing it in the context of the first half of the XX century and the upheavals of German Reich. The narrative focusing on the life and work of the protagonist reveals the deceptiveness and destructiveness of the outlined path that inevitably leads to a quick collapse, especially in the art sphere.

KeywordsJohann Spies Adrian Leverkühn Sava Grudtsyn pact with Devil Thomas Mann.