As a prologue, the Chorus introduces the reader to Faustus and his story. He is described as being "base of stock"; however, he is able to become a Doctor. During this opening, the reader also gets a first clue to the source of Faustus's downfall. Faustus's tale is likened to that of Icarus, who flew too close to the sun and fell to his death when the sun melted his waxen wings. This is a hint to Faustus's end as well as bringing to the reader's attention the idea of hubris (excessive pride) which is represented in the Icarus story, and ultimately Faustus'.