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Difficulty: MediumPlot Structure and Narrative Devices

In prose fiction, the literary device known as deus ex machina resolves a narrative's central conflict through logical, pre-established character development rather than an unexpected external intervention.

Answer: Answer

Answer

The statement is false because deus ex machina relies on an artificial or unexpected external intervention rather than logical, character-driven resolution.
The statement is false. Deus ex machina refers to a plot device wherein a seemingly unsolvable conflict is abruptly resolved by an unexpected, artificial, or improbable intervention, rather than emerging organically from internal character development or cause-and-effect plot progression.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Define the narrative device deus ex machina in prose structure.
Deus ex machina (literally 'god from the machine') is a structural plot resolution wherein a hopeless scenario is suddenly resolved by an improbable external force or contrived event.
Establishing the precise definition of the device is necessary to evaluate the claim.
2
Compare the definition with the claim made in the statement.
The statement asserts that deus ex machina operates through 'logical, pre-established character development', which describes organic plot resolution rather than deus ex machina.
Evaluating whether the statement aligns with established literary terminology reveals the falsehood.
3
Formulate the conclusion.
Because deus ex machina is defined by its artificial and unearned nature, attributing organic character-driven resolution to it is incorrect.
Organic resolution contrasts directly with the contrived nature of deus ex machina.

Key Concept

Deus ex Machina in Plot Resolution
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Topics

Plot Structure and Narrative Devices

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