In the Greek tragedies from the Classical Age, a common dramatic convention was the use of a Chorus. The Chorus served several functions. (1) They could introduce the play or each act of the play. (2) They could symbolize the citizens or the community. Thus, they would be the voice of the people. (3) They could represent the "middle ground" – the conservative or safe way to think or behave in a situation. In this sense, they might also represent prudence – the smartest or wisest way to behave. (4) They could offer commentary or opinion on a situation. They might, then, be representing the opinion of the playwright.
In Doctor Faustus, as mentioned earlier, the Chorus is a single actor who introduces several of the scenes (specifically, Scenes 1, 7, 9, and 12) and who also recites the epilogue at the end of the play. As a later stage direction notes, the actor who plays the character of Wagner, a student who serves Faustus, would also recite the five choral parts. For the most part, the Chorus functions to provide introductory or explanatory information about the play. Opinion appears only in the prologue and epilogue, and that opinion is rather generalized and dogmatic (asserting basic Christian beliefs).
There are, however, three characters in the play that serve a function or functions quite similar to that of the Classical Greek chorus. These characters are the three scholars. The scholars appear in Scene 2 for comical effect. But in Scene 13 they reappear and function like a chorus. They tell Faustus to call on God (line 24) – to be prudent, to be safe. They also express dismay at Faustus' actions (line 33) – this dismay represents the common voice of the community. And, further, they offer the general wisdom that it is unsafe to tempt God (line 46). The three scholars, then, are more symbolic than realistic. They also represent the path that Faustus should take. They pray, and Faustus should do the same. Faustus, however, does not believe that prayer can help.