What does 'deus ex machina' mean in literary terms?

The term 'deus ex machina' originates from ancient Greek theater and translates to "god from the machine". It refers to a plot device where an unexpected power or event intervenes to resolve a seemingly hopeless situation in a story. This miraculous intervention often comes without any foreshadowing and can seem contrived or artificial, as it pulls the resolution out of nowhere rather than being a natural progression of the plot.

In the context of literary analysis, identifying this device is important because it reflects on how characters or narratives are constructed and resolved. In various works, whether classical or contemporary, this device highlights the themes of fate, divine intervention, or the limitations of human agency, thereby providing a dramatic twist often intended to surprise the audience.

Understanding this term enhances comprehension of narrative structure and the impact of unexpected resolutions on the experience of storytelling. Other options do not encapsulate this unique narrative technique accurately, emphasizing the distinctiveness of 'deus ex machina' as a literary device.