'Deus ex machina' in Ancient Greek Tragedy: Its Impact and Purpose

Ancient Greek tragedy is a captivating form of storytelling that has greatly influenced the development of theatre throughout history. It originated in ancient Greece and was characterised by its exploration of human suffering, fate, and morality. These tragedies were performed during religious festivals to honour the gods, and they often delved into profound themes that resonated with the audience. The impact of ancient Greek tragedy can still be felt in modern theatre, literature, and film. One particular aspect that has intrigued scholars and theatre enthusiasts alike is the concept of 'deus ex machina'.

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Understanding the Concept of Deus ex Machina

'Deus ex machina' is a Latin phrase that translates to 'god from the machine'. It refers to a plot device commonly employed in ancient Greek tragedy, where a god or divine being is introduced into the story to resolve a seemingly insurmountable conflict. This technique was often used when the playwright faced difficulties in finding a logical or satisfactory resolution to the plot. The god would descend onto the stage using a mechanical contraption, typically a crane-like device. By employing this method, the distinction between mortals and deities was always obvious and provided a solution to the character's predicament.

The Origins and Evolution of 'Deus ex Machina' in Ancient Greek Theatre

The origins of 'deus ex machina' can be traced back to the works of ancient Greek playwrights such as Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides. These playwrights utilised this plot device to create dramatic tension and heighten the emotional impact of their tragedies. Over time, the use of 'deus ex machina' evolved and became more sophisticated. Playwrights began to incorporate complex moral and philosophical dilemmas into their stories, making the intervention of the gods even more thought-provoking.

The Impact of 'Deus ex Machina' on the Narrative Structure of Ancient Greek Tragedy

The introduction of 'deus ex machina' had a profound impact on the narrative structure of ancient Greek tragedy. It allowed playwrights to explore complex themes and conflicts that could not be easily resolved through human means alone. The sudden appearance of a god injected a sense of awe and wonder into the story, leaving the audience captivated and eager to witness the resolution of the plot. However, the use of 'deus ex machina' also posed challenges for playwrights, as it required careful execution to avoid a contrived or unsatisfying ending.

The Purpose and Symbolism of 'Deus ex Machina' in Ancient Greek Theatre

The purpose of 'deus ex machina' extended beyond its function as a plot device. It served as a reminder of the gods' influence on human affairs and the limitations of mortal beings. The gods were often portrayed as all-knowing and all-powerful, capable of intervening in the lives of humans to shape their destiny. Through 'deus ex machina' ancient Greek playwrights explored the themes of divine intervention, free will, and the consequences of human actions. The symbolism of this plot device resonated deeply with the audience, providing a reflection of their own beliefs and understanding of the world.

Examples of 'Deus ex Machina' in Famous Ancient Greek Tragedies

Numerous famous ancient Greek tragedies employed 'deus ex machina' to great effect. One notable example is Sophocles 'Oedipus Rex'. In this tragedy, Oedipus, the protagonist, is confronted with a prophecy that he will kill his father and marry his mother. Despite his best efforts to avoid this fate, it ultimately comes to pass. In the final act, the god Apollo is introduced through 'deus ex machina' to reveal the truth to Oedipus and bring about his downfall. This unexpected twist leaves the audience in awe of the gods' power and the tragic consequences of Oedipus' actions.

Criticisms and Debates Surrounding the Use of 'Deus ex Machina' in Ancient Greek Theatre

While 'deus ex machina' was a widely used plot device in ancient Greek theatre, it was not without its critics. Some argued that its use undermined the dramatic tension and emotional impact of the story. They believed that the sudden intervention of a god could diminish the agency of the human characters and lead to a less satisfying resolution. Additionally, there were debates about the moral implications of relying on divine intervention to solve human conflicts.  A famous example of this critique can be found in the work of Aristotle, ''The Poetics,'' wherein he reviews tragedians for their employment of 'deus ex machina'. Despite these criticisms, 'deus ex machina' continued to be employed by playwrights, showcasing its enduring appeal and significance.

The Relevance of 'Deus ex Machina' in Modern Storytelling

Although 'deus ex machina' originated in ancient Greek tragedy, its influence can still be seen in modern storytelling. While its usage has evolved, the core concept of introducing a divine or unexpected element to resolve a narrative conflict remains prevalent. In contemporary literature and film, authors and directors often employ similar techniques to surprise and engage their audience. However, modern storytellers strive to find a balance between satisfying resolutions and maintaining the integrity of the narrative.

Exploring Alternative Narrative Devices In Ancient Greek Tragedy

 While 'deus ex machina' has left an indelible mark on ancient Greek tragedy, it is essential to explore other narrative devices utilised by playwrights of that era. Techniques such dramatic irony, tragic flaws, and the exploration of human suffering all played significant roles in shaping the genre. By examining these alternatives devices, we gain a more comprehensive understanding of the complexities and nuances of ancient Greek theatre.

Conclusion

The concept of 'deus ex machina' in ancient Greek tragedy holds a significant place in the history of theatre and storytelling. Its impact on the narrative structure, purpose, and symbolism of these tragedies cannot be overstated. While debates and criticisms surround its usage, 'deus ex machina' continues to captivate audiences and inspire modern storytellers. by delving into the intricacies of this plot device and exploring alternative narrative devices, we gain a deeper appreciation for the enduring legacy of ancient Greek theatre and the timeless themes it explores.

Additional sources.

Wikipedia: Deus ex Machina

Britannica: Definition of Deus ex Machina

Thank you for reading this article. If you found it insightful, please consider sharing it with others who may have an interest in theatre and storytelling. Feel free to leave your thoughts and comments below. You can also join our community and stay updated with the latest articles! By clicking the blue button in the right sidebar, you can become a follower and never miss out on our future content. And remember, the essence of 'deus ex machina' lives on in stories we tell today.                                         

Prometheus Bound: An Ancient Greek Tragedy

Prometheus Bound is a play by the ancient Greek playwright Aeschylus,  believed to have been written in the 5th century BC. The play tells the story of Prometheus, a titan who defies the gods by giving fire to humanity and is punished for his actions.     

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The play opens with Prometheus being chained to a rock by the god Zeus as punishment for his rebellion. Prometheus is visited by a series of characters throughout the play, including his fellow Titans and the messenger god Hermes. Prometheus remains defiant throughout, refusing to beg for mercy or betray his fellow Titans.

One of the central themes of the play is the conflict between individual freedom and the power of the state. Prometheus represents the individual's right to challenge authority and fight for justice, while Zeus represents the power of the state to maintain order and punish those who defy it.

Prometheus Bound is also notable for its portrayal of the gods as cruel and petty, rather than the wise and benevolent figures often depicted in Greek mythology. This portrayal reflects a growing scepticism towards the traditional religious beliefs of ancient Greece and a desire to question the authority of the gods.

Despite its break subject matter, Prometheus Bound is a powerful and thought-provoking play that has influenced countless writers and artists over the centuries. Its themes of rebellion and individual freedom continue to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless work of literature.

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The Poetics of Aristotle: Unveiling the Essence of Classical Literature

Aristotle's Poetics has long been regarded as a cornerstone in the field of literary theory and criticism. Written in the 4th century BCE, this seminal work delves into the fundamental principles that govern the creation and appreciation of art, particularly in the realm of drama. In this blog post, I will try to explain the key concepts and insightful observations presented in Aristotle's Poetics, shedding light on its enduring significance in the world of literature.

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The Definition and Purpose of Poetry

Aristotle begins his Poetics by defining poetry as an imitation of reality, specifically the representation of human actions. He argues that the purpose of poetry is to evoke emotions in the audience through a cathartic experience. By witnessing the tragedies and triumphs of characters on stage, the audience is able to purge their own emotions and achieve a sense of emotional release,

The Elements of Tragedy

Aristotle identified six key elements that constitute the essence of tragedy: plot, character, thought, diction, melody, and spectacle. He emphasises the importance of a well-structured plot with a clear beginning, middle, and end (the three acts in script writing) as the foundation of a successful tragedy. Additionally, he explores the significance of character development, the use of appropriate language (diction), the role of music, and the visual aspects (spectacle) in enhancing the overall theatrical experience.

The Concept of Mimesis

Central to Aristotle's Poetics is the concept of mimesis, which refers to the imitation of representation of reality of art. According to Aristotle, poetry should imitate universal truths and depict events that are probable or necessary. He argues that successful poetry should strike a delicate balance between reality and artistic interpretation, enabling the audience to empathise with the characters and their experiences.

The Role of Catharsis

Catharsis, a term commonly associated with Aristotle's Poetics, refers to the emotional release experienced by the audience through the witnessing of tragic events on stage. Aristotle argues that tragedy has a purifying effect on the soul, allowing the spectator to experience a cathartic release of emotions such as fear and pity. This catharsis serves to restore emotional balance and create a sense of psychological well-being.

The Importance of Unity

Aristotle stresses the significance of unity in a well-crafted piece of literature. He introduces the concept of unity of action, which implies that a tragedy should have a single central plot-line with a clear and logical progression of events. Unity of time and place is also emphasised, advocating for a concise time-frame and a single location to maintain coherence and focus.

The Distinction Between Epic and Tragedy

Aristotle draws a clear distinction between epic and tragedy, highlighting their distinct characteristics. While both forms of literature involve imitation, Aristotle argues that tragedy is more condensed and focused, whereas epic poetry allows for a broader scope of storytelling. He also notes that tragedy elicits emotions through the depiction of specific characters, whereas epic poetry often deals with larger-than-life heroes and grand narratives.

Conclusion

Aristotle's Poetics continues to be a timeless and influential work that provides invaluable insights into the art of storytelling and the essence of literature. By exploring the concept of mimesis, catharsis, unity, and the elements of tragedy, we can gain a deeper understanding of the power of literature to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and offer a profound reflection on the human experience. As readers and writers, we can draw inspiration from Aristotle's Poetics to create and appreciate works of art that stand the test of time. 

The Ten First Screenplays I Read

Writing generally has been my lifelong passion, and screenwriting, which I discovered years ago, is the kind that I enjoy spending my time on. It all started when a friend recommended Sid Field's book 'Screenplay'. Initially hesitant due to my lack of knowledge of screenwriting, I was quickly captivated by the comprehensive content of the small book. I realised two things: first, I did not need to buy any other book; this book was more than enough to start my screenwriting practice. Second: I understood the importance of reading numerous scripts to familiarise myself, before embarking on my own writing journey.

In this post, I have compiled the first ten scripts that I found on different websites. Although each script offered its own insights, they all greatly enhanced my understanding of the screenwriting process. 

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10) Gone Girl

''Gone Girl'' is a gripping thriller that centres around the disappearance of Amy, the wife of Nick Dunne. As the media frenzy intensifies, Nick finds himself under suspicion and becomes the prime suspect in Amy's disappearance. Directed by David Fincer and starring Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike. The film was released on cinemas in 2014, while the screenplay was finished in 2013. It has one hundred sixty-six pages and a number of scenes two hundred seventy-three. 

Site: Script PDF.        Script: Gone girl.   

9) The fault in our stars.

''The fault in our stars'' is a heartwarming and emotional film based on the best-selling novel by John Green. The story follows Hazel Grace Lancaster, a witty and intelligent teenager who has been living with terminal cancer. She meets Augustus Waters, who is also a cancer survivor. The movie was released on cinemas in 2014, the screenplay was written in 2013. It has one hundred sixty-eight pages.

Site: The internet movie database.    Script: The fault in our stars. 

8) Charmed pilot episode.

''Charmed.'' is a popular TV show that originally aired in 1998 and continued until 2006. The series revolves around the lives of three sisters, known as charmed ones, who discover they are powerful witches. I never found the original script, but I found a site where I could read the dialogues.

Site: Charmed scripts TV   

7) Nikita pilot episode.

''Nikita'', is an American action thriller drama television series that aired from 2010 to 2013. It follows the story of Nikita, a woman who escapes from a secret government organisation called 'Division' and seeks to bring it down. I found the script of the first episode.

Site: TV calling            Script: Nikita.  

6) Gravity.

''Gravity'' is a 2013 science fiction thriller directed by Alfonso Cuaron. The film follows Dr. Ryan Stone, played by Sandra Bullock, a medical engineer, on her first space shuttle mission alongside veteran astronaut Matt Kowalski, played by George Clooney. During a routine spacewalk, their shuttle is destroyed, leaving them stranded in space with limited oxygen and no communication with Earth.

Site: The internet movie database.      Script: Gravity.  

5) Fringe pilot episode

''Fringe'' is a science fiction television series that aired from 2008 to 2013. The programme follows a group of FBI agents working under special Agent Olivia Dunham as they look into strange and unexplained phenomena. They are joined by Dr. Walter Bishop, a brilliant but eccentric scientist, and his son, Peter Bishop. The show combines elements of science fiction, horror, and procedural drama.

Site: Subslikescript       Script: Fringe.

4) Boyhood.

''Boyhood'' is a unique film that was shot over a span of twelve years, following the real-time ageing of the actors. The story revolves around Mason Evans Jr. and his family. At the beginning of the film, Mason is six years old and lives with his divorced mother Olivia and younger sister Sam. Olivia decides to move the family to Houston for better opportunities. Mason sr. the children's father, visits them occasionally  but eventually leaves them after an argument with Olivia. Olivia remarries a man named Bill, who becomes increasingly abusive. The film explores the family's journey. 

Site: Script slug.        Script: Boyhood.

3) Arrow pilot episode.

''Arrow'' is a TV series that revolves around Oliver  Queen, a billionaire playboy who goes missing and is presumed dead after his yacht sinks. However, he returns to his city five years later as a transformed man. Determined to make amends for his past and fight crime.

Site: The television pilot.    Script: Arrow first episode.

2) A walk to remember. 

''A walk to remember.'' is a heartwarming romantic drama film based on Nicholas Spark's novel of the same name. The story revolves around the unlikely love that blossoms between London Carter, a popular high school student, and Jamie Sullivan, a devout Christian who values her faith above all else. As they spend time together, Landon's perspective on life begins to change.

Site: Daily scripts.              Script: A walk to remember.

1) Kick Ass

''kick Ass'' is a movie that tells the story of Dave Lizewski, an ordinary high school student and comic book fan. Feeling unnoticed and tired of the injustices around him, Dave decides to become a real-life superhero named Kick Ass. I have this script at the top of this list because it was the first script I would ever read, and it was years ago. I read it with the help of a notebook, a dictionary, a pen, and a lot of writing. it took me twelve days to finish it. Many words lost their meaning because I was not good in this language.

Script: Kick Ass movie one.

Conclusion.

When it comes to screenwriting, there are two kinds of scripts: those that are good and those that are great. The screenplay is one of the most influential documents in our world. These documents need to be designed in such a way that they can bring out the best and sometimes the worst in the character. It is important to have an original and compelling story-line to make this happen. The characters are the most important part of any screenplay. They need to be well developed, fully realised, and multidimensional, and they must be able to convey the message of the writer. The antagonist must be someone both protagonist and the audience can hate. The protagonist must be someone the audience can relate to, even if the character is struggling with inner conflicts. The story-lines need to be simple, compelling, and have a few unexpected twists and turns. The story needs to have beginning, middle, and end, and a few scenes that are not in the screenplay but are necessary for the audience to understand the flow of the story. The screenplays I mentioned above, have these elements in a very clear and concise fashion. At least for me, who, before I started reading them, had no idea what a script looked like. Maybe you prefer different genres, different plot, but the gold rule is the same: If you want to start writing screenplays, you need to read a lot of screenplays.

                     

Unlocking the Power of Self-Publishing: A Comprehensive Guide to Rakuten, KDP, and Google Play

Introduction to self-publishing

Self-publishing has revolutionised the world of authors and aspiring writers. Gone are the days when traditional publishing houses held the key to success in the literary world. With the rise of self-publishing platforms like Rakuten, KDP, and Google Play, individuals now have the power to share their stories with the world without any barriers. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the benefits of self-publishing and provide an in-depth overview of these three popular platforms. By the end of this guide, you will be equipped with the knowledge and tools to make an informed decision about choosing the right platform for your self-publishing needs.

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Benefits of self-publishing

Self-publishing offers a multitude of benefits that have transformed the publishing industry. Firstly, it provides authors with complete creative control over their work. Unlike traditional publishing, where authors often have to compromise on their artistic vision, self-publishing allows individuals to retain full ownership and creative freedom. Additionally, self-published authors have the opportunity to earn higher royalties. Traditional publishing houses typically offer authors a small percentage of book sales, whereas self-publishing platforms offer much higher royalty rates, sometimes up to 70% of the book's price. Moreover, self-publishing allows authors to reach a global audience. With the advent of digital platforms, books are no longer limited by geographical boundaries. Self-published authors can now showcase their work to readers around the world with just a few clicks.

Self-publishing platforms overview: Rakuten, KDP, and Google Play

When it comes to self-publishing, there are numerous platforms available, but three stand out as the most popular: Rakuten, KDP (Kindle Direct Publishing), and Google Play. Each platform has its own unique features and advantages. Let's take a closer look at each of these platforms.

Rakuten: Features, advantages, and tips for self-publishing

Rakuten is a global e-commerce platform that offers a self-publishing service known as Kobo Writing Life. One of the key features of Rakuten is its wide reach. Kobo eReaders are popular in many countries, including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia. By publishing your book on Rakuten, you can tap into these international markets and reach a diverse audience. Rakuten also provides authors with detailed sales reports and analytics, allowing them to track their book's performance. Additionally, Rakuten allows authors to set their own pricing and offers promotional tools to help boost book sales. To maximise your success on Rakuten, it is important to optimise your book's metadata, including keywords, categories, and descriptions. This will help your book appear in relevant searches and increase its visibility.

KDP: Features, advantages, and tips for self-publishing

KDP, or Kindle Direct Publishing, is Amazon's self-publishing platform. With over 80% of the e-book market share, Amazon is undoubtedly a dominant player in the self-publishing industry. One of the biggest advantages of KDP is its massive customer base. Millions of readers around the world use Kindle devices or the Kindle app to read e-books, giving authors a vast potential audience. KDP also offers various marketing tools, such as Kindle Countdown Deals and Kindle Unlimited, which can help boost book sales and visibility. To succeed on KDP, it is crucial to optimise your book's cover design and book description. A visually appealing cover and a compelling description can greatly impact readers' purchasing decisions.

Google Play: Features, advantages, and tips for self-publishing

Google Play Books is another popular platform for self-publishing. With its wide user base and integration with Android devices, Google Play offers authors the opportunity to reach a large audience. One of the key advantages of Google Play is its flexible formatting options. Authors have the freedom to upload their books in various formats, including EPUB and PDF. Additionally, Google Play provides authors with a user-friendly interface and detailed sales reports. To maximise your success on Google Play, it is important to optimise your book's metadata, such as title, description, and keywords. This will help your book appear in relevant searches and increase its discoverability.

Choosing the right platform for your self-publishing needs

When it comes to choosing the right platform for self-publishing, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on various factors, such as your target audience, genre, and personal preferences. Before making a decision, consider the following questions:

• Who is your target audience?
• What genre does your book fall under?
• What features and tools are important to you?
• What are the royalty rates offered by each platform?

By carefully evaluating these factors, you will be able to make an informed decision that aligns with your self-publishing goals.

Self-publishing success stories

Self-publishing has produced numerous success stories where authors have achieved great heights of success and recognition. One such example is Hugh Howey, who self-published his dystopian novel "Wool" on Amazon's KDP platform. The book gained immense popularity and eventually caught the attention of traditional publishing houses, leading to a major book deal. Another success story is Amanda Hocking, who self-published her young adult paranormal novels and became one of the best-selling indie authors of all time. These success stories serve as an inspiration for aspiring authors and highlight the immense potential of self-publishing.

Self-publishing resources and support

While self-publishing offers great opportunities, it can also be a challenging journey. Thankfully, there are numerous resources and support available to help you navigate the self-publishing process. Online communities, such as the Kindle Direct Publishing Community and the Kobo Writing Life Community, provide a platform for authors to connect, share experiences, and seek advice. Additionally, there are countless books, podcasts, and courses dedicated to self-publishing. Some notable resources include "The Creative Penn" by Joanna Penn, "Self-Publishing School" by Chandler Bolt, and the "Self-Publishing Formula" podcast by Mark Dawson. By utilising these resources and seeking support, you can enhance your self-publishing journey and increase your chances of success.

Conclusion

Self-publishing has unlocked a world of possibilities for authors, allowing them to share their stories with the world on their own terms. Platforms like Rakuten, KDP, and Google Play have democratised the publishing industry, giving authors complete creative control and the opportunity to reach a global audience. By understanding the features, advantages, and tips for each platform, you can make an informed decision about which platform best suits your self-publishing needs. Remember to leverage the success stories of self-published authors and utilise the available resources and support to enhance your journey. Embrace the power of self-publishing and embark on an exciting adventure as an independent author.

CTA: Start your self-publishing journey today and unlock the power of sharing your story with the world. Choose a platform that aligns with your goals and take the first step towards becoming a successful self-published author.

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