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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 New Latin term deus ex machina is a translation of a Greek phrase and means literally "a god from a machine." "Machine," in this case, refers to the crane that held a god over the stage in ancient Greek and Roman drama.
For example, if a character fell off a cliff and a flying robot suddenly appeared out of nowhere to catch them, that would be a deus ex machina. The goal of this device is to bring about resolution, but it can also introduce comedic relief, disentangle a plot, or surprise an audience.
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.
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.
DEUS EX MACHINA definition: 1. an unnatural or very unlikely end to a story or event, that solves or removes any problems too…. Learn more.
Nov 24, 2021 · 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.
Mar 26, 2022 · Deus ex machina (pronounced day-us eks mah kee nuh) is a Latin term that means “god from the machine.” It refers to devices used in ancient Greek theaters to dramatically bring a god (played by an actor) onto the stage.
Meanings of “Deus Ex Machina” The phrase “deus ex machina” means someone who comes in the very nick of time to solve a problem. It also means that an event or a power-saving a hopeless situation. As a device, it can be said as an unnatural plot device in a book or play.
Definition of Deus Ex Machina. 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 ...
