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Deus ex machina (/ ˌ d eɪ ə s ɛ k s ˈ m æ k ɪ n ə, ˈ m ɑː k-/ DAY-əs ex-MA(H)K-in-ə, Latin: [ˈdɛ.ʊs ɛks ˈmaːkʰɪnaː]; plural: dei ex machina; English "god from the machine") is a plot device whereby a seemingly unsolvable problem in a story is suddenly or abruptly resolved by an unexpected and unlikely occurrence.
The meaning of DEUS EX MACHINA is a god introduced by means of a crane in ancient Greek and Roman drama to decide the final outcome. How to use deus ex machina in a sentence. Did you know?
deus ex machina, a person or thing that appears or is introduced into a situation suddenly and unexpectedly and provides an artificial or contrived solution to an apparently insoluble difficulty. The term was first used in ancient Greek and Roman drama, where it meant the timely appearance of a god to unravel and resolve the plot. The deus ex ...
I. What is Deus Ex Machina? Deus ex machina (pronounced DAY-us ex MACK-in-uh) is Latin for “a god from the machine.” It’s when some new character, force, or event suddenly shows up to solve a seemingly hopeless situation. The effect is usually unexpected, and it’s often disappointing for audiences.
Generally speaking, deus ex machina is regarded as an easy—and therefore somewhat cheap—device for bringing about resolution in a plot. It can make the plot seem weak, sloppy, or ill-conceived. Deus ex machina is a Latin term, borrowed from a Greek phrase meaning "god from the machine."
Nov 24, 2021 · Last updated: Nov 24, 2021 • 3 min read. The deus ex machina device is generally regarded as a cheap way to insert an easy conclusion, but it can also function as a comedic device or add an element of surprise. Learn the meaning of deus ex machina and how it continues to function in today’s creative writing landscape.
The literary device of deus ex machina means to solve a seemingly intractable problem in a plot by adding in an unexpected character, object, or situation. Deus ex machina often has the sense of being quite contrived, as it seems like the author must resort to something that he or she did not set up properly plot-wise.
