Deus ex machina

Definition

Deus ex machina is a Latin phrase meaning 'god from the machine.' It refers to a plot device where a seemingly unsolvable problem is suddenly resolved by an unexpected and unlikely occurrence, often involving a divine intervention. This concept connects to the larger themes of divine influence in narratives, where gods or supernatural forces intervene in human affairs, leading to either blessings or curses that shape the course of events.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Deus ex machina is commonly used in ancient Greek theater, where actors portraying gods would descend from machines to resolve complex conflicts.
2. This device can serve both as a means of providing closure to a story and as a critique of character agency, raising questions about free will versus divine influence.
3. While often viewed as a convenient narrative shortcut, it can also highlight the unpredictability of fate and the intervention of higher powers in human affairs.
4. In mythology, gods often intervene directly in human lives, either blessing characters with success or cursing them with misfortune, illustrating the dual nature of divine intervention.
5. The use of deus ex machina can lead to polarized reactions from audiences, with some viewing it as a clever resolution and others criticizing it for lacking realism or depth.

Review Questions

• How does deus ex machina illustrate the relationship between divine forces and human actions within narratives?
  • Deus ex machina exemplifies the tension between human agency and divine intervention by resolving conflicts in ways that humans cannot control. When a god or supernatural force suddenly appears to save or condemn characters, it raises questions about whether individuals truly shape their own destinies or are merely pawns in a larger cosmic game. This dynamic often emphasizes the fragility of human plans in the face of unpredictable divine will.
• Discuss how the use of deus ex machina can affect audience perception of character development and plot resolution.
  • When deus ex machina is employed, it can diminish the perceived growth of characters by suggesting that their struggles are inconsequential compared to external forces. This reliance on sudden resolution may lead audiences to feel less invested in characters since their outcomes appear predetermined rather than earned through their choices and actions. As a result, the narrative may lack depth and leave viewers questioning the authenticity of the journey undertaken by the characters.
• Evaluate the implications of using deus ex machina in contemporary storytelling compared to its role in ancient myths and dramas.
  • In contemporary storytelling, deus ex machina often faces criticism for undermining narrative coherence and character development. Unlike ancient myths where divine intervention was an accepted norm reflecting cultural beliefs about fate and the gods' roles in human affairs, modern audiences may prefer more nuanced resolutions that align with character growth. This shift challenges creators to find innovative ways to incorporate themes of fate and divine influence without resorting to abrupt plot devices that feel contrived or unsatisfactory.

Related terms

Fate: The predetermined course of events in a person's life, often depicted as being controlled by divine forces or destiny.

Tragic Flaw: A character trait that leads to the downfall of the protagonist, often seen as influenced by external divine forces.

Catharsis: The emotional release that the audience experiences at the resolution of a drama, often resulting from divine intervention or other plot resolutions.