Which term describes an unexpected plot device used to resolve the conflict?

Which term describes an unexpected plot device used to resolve the conflict?

• A. Pathos
• B. Realism
• C. Anecdote
• D. Deus ex machina

Answer: (D)

A plot device that resolves a conflict in an unexpected, almost miraculous way is being tested here. The best term is deus ex machina. This phrase comes from ancient theater where a god was lowered onto the stage to abruptly fix the tangled plot. In modern storytelling, it describes a sudden, unlikely intervention that resolves the central problem, often without foreshadowing or logical buildup. That exactly fits the idea of an unexpected device used to clear up the conflict. Pathos is an appeal to emotion meant to sway the audience. Realism aims for believable, life-like portrayal. An anecdote is a short personal story used to illustrate a point. For example, a story where the heroes are about to be defeated and, at the last moment, an unforeseen event or character intervenes to neatly resolve everything is a clear instance of a deus ex machina.

A plot device that resolves a conflict in an unexpected, almost miraculous way is being tested here. The best term is deus ex machina. This phrase comes from ancient theater where a god was lowered onto the stage to abruptly fix the tangled plot. In modern storytelling, it describes a sudden, unlikely intervention that resolves the central problem, often without foreshadowing or logical buildup. That exactly fits the idea of an unexpected device used to clear up the conflict.

Pathos is an appeal to emotion meant to sway the audience. Realism aims for believable, life-like portrayal. An anecdote is a short personal story used to illustrate a point. For example, a story where the heroes are about to be defeated and, at the last moment, an unforeseen event or character intervenes to neatly resolve everything is a clear instance of a deus ex machina.