English Literature GCSE
Deus ex machina
What Deus ex machina means in English Literature GCSE, as defined for OCR, Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Deus ex machina
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
An unexpected power or event saving a seemingly hopeless situation, especially as a contrived plot device in a play or novel. The arrival of the Naval officer at the end is a form of deus ex machina.
An unexpected power or event saving a seemingly hopeless situation.
Topics that use Deus ex machina
- Lord of the Flies (OCR GCSE)
- Lord of the Flies (Pearson Edexcel GCSE)
Related terms
Using Deus ex machina in the exam
Definition questions usually carry one or two marks, and examiners look for the precise wording. Write the definition from memory, check it against the version above, and then use the term in a longer answer on the same topic so it sticks.
Practise English Literature questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
Start free
All English Literature GCSE terms7 days Premium · Then free forever · No card, no charge