Who is Dr. Heinrich Faust from Faust and what is their importance?

Dr. Heinrich Faust is Master of Arts as well as a doctor. Faust has spent ten years studying nearly every facet of the sciences, from medicine to law to philosophy and theology. Faust has also been called upon to teach his skills including his proficiency in the black arts. Faust rises up through his field and gains respect from some, fear from others. Still, nothing appeases Faust's need for a broader understanding of the world and all that is in it. Faust is willing to give up everything he has to gain this understanding and finds that the desire for it pervades everything he does. Faust becomes a hermit in his house, rarely talking to anyone or going out.