Deus ex machina

Definition

Deus ex machina is a dramatic device where an unexpected power or event saves a seemingly hopeless situation, often introduced at the last moment. This technique originated in ancient Greek theater, where a god or divine figure would be brought onto the stage using a crane-like machine to resolve conflicts and provide closure. It highlights themes of fate, divine intervention, and the limits of human agency in storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In ancient Greek theater, the use of a crane called 'mekhane' was common for lowering actors portraying gods onto the stage.
2. Deus ex machina allows playwrights to resolve complex plots quickly, often leading to criticism for being overly convenient or unrealistic.
3. The term translates from Latin as 'god from the machine,' emphasizing the artificiality of the resolution.
4. This device is used not only in theater but also in literature and film, serving as a plot twist or surprise ending.
5. While effective in providing closure, reliance on deus ex machina can diminish audience investment in character development and story progression.

Review Questions

• How does the use of deus ex machina influence the resolution of conflicts in ancient Greek plays?
  • The use of deus ex machina significantly impacts conflict resolution by introducing an unexpected element that quickly resolves complex situations. This can lead to a swift and often convenient ending, leaving characters' struggles seemingly validated by divine intervention. It reflects the belief in fate and higher powers influencing human lives, which was central to Greek thought and dramatically emphasized in their storytelling.
• Critique the effectiveness of deus ex machina as a narrative device in ancient Greek theater compared to modern storytelling.
  • In ancient Greek theater, deus ex machina was an accepted device that underscored themes of fate and divine will. However, in modern storytelling, it can be seen as a sign of lazy writing if overused. Contemporary narratives often favor character-driven resolutions that promote emotional investment, making deus ex machina less effective unless used sparingly or with clever twists that maintain audience engagement.
• Evaluate how the use of deus ex machina reflects societal beliefs and values in ancient Greek culture.
  • The use of deus ex machina in ancient Greek theater mirrors societal beliefs regarding fate, divine intervention, and human limitation. It suggests that human efforts are sometimes futile against the whims of gods or fate, which aligns with the Greeks' understanding of their place in the cosmos. This perspective fosters a narrative where characters are often at the mercy of larger forces, illustrating cultural values that highlight humility before divine power while also allowing audiences to experience catharsis through dramatic resolution.

Related terms

Catharsis: A term referring to the emotional release or purging experienced by the audience, often through feelings of pity and fear during a tragedy.

Tragedy:

A dramatic genre that portrays serious themes and often involves the downfall of the main character due to a tragic flaw or fate.

Chorus:

A group of performers in ancient Greek theater that commented on the action and provided background information, often reflecting societal norms and values.