Deus Ex Machina TYBA Sem-5

Note: This blog is part of the academic material prepared for Semester 5 TYBA students of Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University (MKBU), as per the revised NEP syllabus for the academic year 2025–26.

Course Title: A Study of Literary Terms

Prescribed Textbook: A Glossary of Literary Terms by M.H. Abrams, 11th Edition (Cengage Learning Publication)

Deus Ex Machina

What is Deus Ex Machina?

Deus Ex Machina is a Latin phrase that means “God from the machine.”

It refers to a sudden, unexpected solution to a seemingly impossible problem in a story often coming from outside the plot.

In ancient Greek theatre, this phrase came from the practice of literally lowering a god (using a crane or machine) onto the stage to solve the hero’s problem.

Definition in Simple Words:

Deus Ex Machina is when a surprising or unnatural event or character comes in at the last moment and resolves a problem in the plot that otherwise had no logical solution.

Origin of the Term:

The term originates from Greek drama. Playwrights like Euripides used a machine called a "mekhane" to lower actors playing gods onto the stage. These gods would then miraculously fix everything.

Examples:

1. Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah

In many episodes, especially when Jethalal is in deep trouble (like police complaints or Bapuji’s anger), Taarak Mehta suddenly shows up and solves everything with his wisdom or connections — even when the situation seems out of hand.

2. Ramayana

At times, divine intervention helps the heroes when things seem impossible. For example, Lord Hanuman bringing Sanjeevani herb to save Lakshman could be considered a divine, last-minute rescue.

3. The Tempest by William Shakespeare

Prospero, who has been using magic throughout the play, suddenly forgives all his enemies, restores order, and plans to return to Milan peacefully.

4. Videos for references: 

Deus Ex Machina might sound like an ancient and dramatic term, but it’s simply about those too-good-to-be-true plot twists that suddenly fix everything. The next time you're reading a novel or watching a film, and a miracle swoops in to save the day pause and think:

“Was that the character’s journey… or just a Deus Ex Machina at work?”

It may solve the conflict, but not always satisfy the story.

Mise-en-scène TYBA Sem-5

Note: This blog is part of the academic material prepared for Semester 5 TYBA students of Maharaja Krishnakumarsinhji Bhavnagar University (MKBU), as per the revised NEP syllabus for the academic year 2025–26.

Course Title: A Study of Literary Terms

Prescribed Textbook: A Glossary of Literary Terms by M.H. Abrams, 11th Edition (Cengage Learning Publication)

The PDF of the 10th edition is provided here for reference : A Glossary of Literary Terms, 10th Ed.

Mise-en-scène 

What Does "Mise-en-scène" Mean?:

The term mise-en-scène (pronounced meez-on-sen) is French and literally means “putting on stage.” In simple terms, it refers to everything you see on the screen or stage—all the visual elements that create the mood, setting, and style of a scene.

It’s like the stage manager of the visual world.

Elements of Mise-en-scène: 

1. Setting and Props – Where is the scene happening? Is it a village, a palace, or a dark forest? What objects are used?

2. Costumes and Makeup – What are the characters wearing? Does it match their personality, time period, or situation?

3. Lighting – Is the scene bright and colorful or dark and shadowy? Lighting sets the mood.

4. Actors’ Movement and Expression – How do the characters move? What emotions do they show?

5. Composition – How are things arranged in the frame? What is in the center or background?

Why is Mise-en-scène Important?:

Mise-en-scène helps the director tell the story visually. Even without words, we can understand:

• The time and place
• The mood and atmosphere
• The character’s emotions
• Symbolic meanings

It’s a powerful way to “show” rather than “tell.”

Examples:

1. Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah (TMKOC)

In TMKOC, the colorful set of Gokuldham society is a part of mise-en-scène. Each flat reflects the character’s culture and lifestyle. The costumes, like Jethalal’s kurta-pajama or Babita’s modern outfits, also reflect personality. The bright lighting and cheerful setting add to the comedy and light mood of the show.

2. Example from movies clips

3. Mise-en-scene on Stage

4. Film Studies Terms

5. Videos for references:   

Mise-en-scène may sound fancy, but it’s all about the visual storytelling. Next time you watch a movie or a play, notice the colors, lights, props, and how everything looks. That’s mise-en-scène working its magic!