Deus ex machina

Definition

Deus ex machina refers to a plot device in which a seemingly unsolvable problem is suddenly resolved by an unexpected intervention, often by a god or supernatural force. This concept highlights the influence of divine beings on human affairs and serves as a narrative tool to bring closure or resolution to the story's conflicts.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In both the Iliad and the Aeneid, gods frequently intervene in mortal affairs, demonstrating the theme of divine influence over human fate.
2. Deus ex machina is often viewed as a controversial technique because it can undermine character development and conflict buildup if not executed effectively.
3. Virgil uses deus ex machina strategically to illustrate Aeneas's reliance on divine guidance, particularly through the favor of gods like Jupiter and Venus.
4. This narrative device can serve to highlight moral lessons, suggesting that the intervention of gods reflects the consequences of human actions and decisions.
5. The concept can also be seen as a reflection of the belief systems of ancient cultures, where divine powers were believed to directly influence human lives and destinies.

Review Questions

• How does the use of deus ex machina in epic poetry reflect the relationship between mortals and divine beings?
  • Deus ex machina illustrates the dynamic between mortals and gods by showing how divine intervention can resolve critical conflicts in a story. In both Homer’s and Virgil’s works, characters often find themselves in dire situations where they have little control over their fates. The sudden appearance of a god or supernatural force not only provides a resolution but also reinforces the idea that human lives are intertwined with divine will, showcasing the dependency on higher powers in navigating their struggles.
• Analyze how Virgil employs deus ex machina within the Aeneid to advance Aeneas's journey toward his destiny.
  • Virgil strategically uses deus ex machina throughout the Aeneid to emphasize Aeneas’s reliance on divine guidance. Key moments, such as Venus shielding her son or Jupiter assuring fate's fulfillment, demonstrate that Aeneas's success is not solely due to his own efforts but also influenced by powerful deities. This not only propels Aeneas towards his destiny but also reinforces the theme that fulfilling one's duty often requires divine support and intervention.
• Evaluate the implications of using deus ex machina in storytelling and its impact on themes such as fate and free will in Greek and Roman epics.
  • The use of deus ex machina raises important questions about fate versus free will within epic narratives. While it can provide quick resolutions, it may also suggest that mortal characters are subject to forces beyond their control, thereby challenging notions of personal agency. In works like the Iliad and the Aeneid, this device highlights how divine interventions often steer characters back toward their fated paths. Consequently, it prompts readers to reflect on how much power individuals truly possess over their destinies when external divine influences shape their journeys.

Related terms

Divine Intervention: The involvement of a deity in the affairs of humans, often to guide, save, or punish characters based on moral or narrative purposes.

Narrative Resolution: The unfolding of events towards the conclusion of a story where conflicts are resolved and questions are answered, often facilitated by various literary devices.

Supernatural Elements: Components of a narrative that involve phenomena beyond the natural world, including gods, spirits, and magical occurrences that shape the storyline.