Deus Ex Machina: Definition, Usage & Examples
Written by  Daisie Team
Published on 6 min read

Contents

  1. What is Deus Ex Machina?
  2. Origin of Deus Ex Machina
  3. Usage of Deus Ex Machina in Literature
  4. Examples of Deus Ex Machina in Literature
  5. Why Deus Ex Machina Matters in Storytelling

Picture this: You're reading a gripping novel, fully invested in the characters and their struggles. The tension builds, the stakes are sky-high, and then... out of nowhere, a twist of fate saves the day! This sudden, unexpected solution is known as "Deus Ex Machina". In this blog, we're going to dive into the definition of deus ex machina, its origins, and how it's used in literature, along with some classic examples.

What is Deus Ex Machina?

Deus Ex Machina is a Latin term that literally translates to 'God from the Machine'. It's a plot device used in storytelling where a seemingly unsolvable problem is suddenly resolved by an unexpected intervention. Let's break this down a little further.

The Literal Definition

Deus Ex Machina is a concept that originated from Greek theater. In its literal sense, the term refers to a mechanical device used to depict gods descending onto the stage to resolve a conflict or crisis. The 'machine' in this case was typically a crane or some other contraption that allowed actors playing gods to appear as if they were descending from the heavens.

The Figurative Definition

Over time, the definition of deus ex machina has evolved to encompass any sudden, unexpected solution that resolves a seemingly unsolvable problem in a story. This could be anything from the sudden arrival of a previously unknown character who saves the day, to a miraculous event that resolves the central conflict. The key element here is that the resolution comes from outside the established narrative, and it's typically not something that the characters (or the readers) could have predicted or influenced.

Deus Ex Machina in a Nutshell

  • It's a plot device used to resolve a seemingly unsolvable problem in a story.
  • The solution comes from outside the established narrative and is typically unexpected.
  • The term originates from Greek theater, but its usage has evolved over time.

Now, armed with a solid understanding of the definition of deus ex machina, let's dive into its origins and its role in literature. Stay tuned!

Origin of Deus Ex Machina

Deus Ex Machina has its roots firmly planted in Greek theatre, but the term itself is Latin. Here's a quick look at how it all began.

Deus Ex Machina in Greek Theatre

Imagine you're at a Greek play thousands of years ago. The human characters are in a bind, and it seems there's no way out. Suddenly, an actor playing a god descends from the sky using an intricate machine — a crane or a lift of sorts — and provides a solution to the problem. That's a deus ex machina.

The Birth of the Term

The phrase itself, however, is not Greek but Latin. It was coined by the Roman critic and philosopher Seneca, who used the term to describe the mechanical devices used in Greek theatre. The literal translation of deus ex machina — 'God from the machine' — perfectly captures the original usage of this plot device.

The Evolution of Deus Ex Machina

While the definition of deus ex machina has evolved over time, its essence remains the same — the sudden, unexpected intervention that resolves a seemingly unsolvable problem. What started as a physical machine in ancient Greek theatre has now become a metaphor for any sudden, unexpected resolution in a story.

Deus Ex Machina: A Recap

  1. It originated in ancient Greek theatre, where it was a mechanical device used to depict gods descending onto the stage.
  2. The term 'deus ex machina' is Latin, coined by the Roman philosopher Seneca.
  3. The definition of deus ex machina has evolved over time to become a metaphor for any unexpected, sudden resolution in a story.

With a good grasp of the origin of deus ex machina, let's move on to its usage in literature. You'll find it's more common than you might think!

Usage of Deus Ex Machina in Literature

Deus ex machina, once a physical god-on-a-crane, has transformed into a powerful literary tool. Let's explore how authors use it to shape their narratives.

Resolving the Unresolvable

At times, a story may paint itself into a corner, presenting a problem that seems impossible to resolve. At such moments, deus ex machina swoops in to save the day. While some may see it as a sign of weak plot design, others view it as a bold, dramatic twist that revives interest and propels the story forward.

Surprising the Readers

Who doesn't love a good surprise? When a story uses deus ex machina, it can catch readers completely off-guard. This unexpected turn of events can invigorate the narrative, turning a predictable plot into a riveting page-turner.

Creating a Sense of Awe

Although the definition of deus ex machina has changed over time, it still retains its original sense of awe and wonder. When used effectively, it can leave readers in awe of the unforeseen and powerful forces that shape the characters' lives.

Usage of Deus Ex Machina: A Recap

  1. Deus ex machina can resolve seemingly intractable problems within a story.
  2. It can surprise readers, turning a predictable plot into an exciting narrative.
  3. When used effectively, it can create a sense of awe and wonder.

Now that you understand how deus ex machina is used in literature, let's dive into some specific examples. You'll see exactly how this device can make a story more compelling — and more unpredictable.

Examples of Deus Ex Machina in Literature

Now that we have a clear definition of deus ex machina, let's see this concept in action in various literary works. These examples will give you a better sense of how this technique brings a twist to the plot.

War of the Worlds by H.G. Wells

In this classic tale, Earth is under attack by Martians. Just when all hope seems lost, the Martians succumb to Earth's bacteria, to which they have no immunity. This sudden and unexpected resolution is a classic example of deus ex machina.

Lord of the Flies by William Golding

As the boys' situation spirals into chaos, a naval officer appears out of nowhere to rescue them. This surprising and abrupt rescue is a perfect illustration of deus ex machina.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling

When Harry is on the brink of defeat in the chamber, Fawkes, the phoenix, flies in with the Sorting Hat. Out of the hat, Harry pulls the sword of Gryffindor, which he uses to defeat the basilisk. This sudden turn of events is a deus ex machina that changes the story's direction.

Examples of Deus Ex Machina: A Recap

  1. In "War of the Worlds," the sudden death of the Martians due to Earth's bacteria is an instance of deus ex machina.
  2. The unexpected rescue in "Lord of the Flies" is a prime example of deus ex machina.
  3. Fawkes' arrival with the Sorting Hat, leading to Harry's victory in "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets," is a deus ex machina.

These examples illustrate the varied ways in which the definition of deus ex machina can be applied in literature. They show how this narrative device can introduce surprising turns of events, revitalize a story, and leave readers in awe.

Why Deus Ex Machina Matters in Storytelling

Now that we've explored the definition of deus ex machina and seen it at work in some well-known literary works, let's talk about why it has such a significant role in storytelling.

It Adds an Element of Surprise

When used well, deus ex machina can add an unexpected twist to the story that keeps you on the edge of your seat. It's like opening a box of chocolates and finding a diamond ring inside. You just didn't see it coming!

Resolves Unresolvable Situations

There are times in a story where the characters are in such a fix that it seems impossible for them to get out of it. That's when deus ex machina swoops in like a superhero and saves the day. It's a way for writers to tie up loose ends and bring the story to a conclusion.

Keeps the Reader Guessing

Deus ex machina is like a magic trick that leaves you wondering, "How did they do that?" It keeps the plot unpredictable and makes the story more engaging. As a reader, it keeps you guessing and adds to the overall fun of reading.

In a Nutshell

  1. Deus ex machina adds an unexpected twist to the story.
  2. It helps resolve seemingly unresolvable situations in the plot.
  3. It keeps the reader guessing, making the story more interesting.

So, the next time you come across a sudden and unexpected resolution in a story, you'll know that's deus ex machina at play. As a narrative device, it has the power to transform a story, making it more exciting and enjoyable to read.

If you enjoyed exploring the concept of Deus Ex Machina and want to delve further into the world of storytelling and creative projects, we recommend checking out Daisie's classes. Learn from some of the best minds in the arts and discover new ways to enhance your creative skills and storytelling abilities.