Deus ex machina: GCSE English Definition

What is deus ex machina?

In GCSE English Literature, deus ex machina is a plot device where characters in a seemingly hopeless situation are saved, or a near-impossible problem is solved by something unexpected or implausible.

Why do writers use deus ex machina?

From the Latin “god from the machine”, deus ex machina was a technique used in Ancient Greek and Roman theatre to allow a god or goddess to resolve a problem in a tragedy or comedy – an actor playing a god would literally be lowered by a crane to the stage. 

In modern literature, it gives a writer an easy way to resolve a conflict or dilemma in a text.

Examples of deus ex machina

In Lord of the Flies, a naval officer stumbles upon the boys on the island just as Jack and his tribe are about to kill Ralph. This unlikely event allows the boys to reflect on the savages that they have become before William Golding concludes his novel.

In H.G. Wells’ novel The War of the Worlds, the alien invaders are suddenly wiped out by bacteria just as they were about to claim total victory over humanity. 

Revision resources to ace your exams

Learn how to explore a writer’s use of deus ex machina by using our detailed GCSE revision notes.

GCSE English Literature Revision Notes 

For more literary techniques, check out our list of 127 top literary devices, complete with student-friendly definitions.