Sunday, June 18, 2023

Deus ex Machina & Modern Problems


How much does popular culture influence the modern

social paradigm?


Deus Ex Machina:

From the Ancient Greek Theatre, has two definitions.


Literal. Stage hands would lower an actor playing a Greek God onto the stage with a series of ropes and pulleys. This to solve the travails of the people. Once solved, Deus Ex Machina, off he goes.


Literary: A plot device that involves what I will call a magic solution that does not evolve from the plot, to solve a problem.


Which brings us to The Greek Chorus. In essence?

As Diana Rigg said to Miss Piggy after telling her the back story in the Muppets Great Caper, "It's exposition. It has to go somewhere."


This mechanism is a staple in Prime Time Sitcom TV.

Best used when introducing a serious theme to address

the concerns of the market. Still, if there is no resolution,

fret not. Next week it's a brand new show.


Bonus Lesson: The message of Antigone, by Jean Anouilh, published during the occupation of France in WWII is much different from the message of Antigone by Sophocles in Ancient Greece.


Despite this, we view problems or impending crises through a lense of popular culture, never academic substance. And this will be our downfall.


Please assist me, Did Orson Welles say to Diana Rigg, Please bring me the standard rich & famous contract" in The Muppets go to Hollywood.


Regards,


Slim

Box 33

Pen Argyl, PA 18072

Etats-Unis


Except as noted

Copyright © 2023 Robert Asken 

All rights reserved


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