Final answer:
Deus ex machina is a literary device that should not be used to resolve the complexities of a plot in a contrived way. The resolution should come naturally from the plot itself, following the rules of necessity or probability. Therefore, the statement is false. Option B is correct answer.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term Deus ex machina refers to a plot device where a seemingly intractable problem is suddenly and abruptly resolved by the unexpected intervention of some new event, character, ability, or object. While it was originally a literal stage mechanism in ancient Greek theatre, where a god was lowered onto the stage to resolve the conflict, in modern literature and storytelling, it often feels like an artificial or improbable resolution.
Considering the classical view, as represented by the ancient poet Aristotle, the use of deus ex machina is not recommended to untie events at the end of a narrative. It was stated that the resolution should come from the plot itself and be necessary or probable, not from an unexpected external force or sudden intervention. The use of deus ex machina should be reserved for events outside of the central narrative action like foretelling or explaining something that lies beyond human knowledge. Within the action itself, nothing irrational should happen without explanation.
When looking at the dénouement, which is the final resolution or untying of the complexities of a plot, it should follow from the preceding events logically and naturally within the story. Ideally, the dénouement should align with the theme, character development, and the narrative arc, providing a satisfactory resolution that stems from the characters' actions and the established storyline.
Given these considerations, the answer to the question whether Deux ex machina is used to untie events at the end is b) False. Deus ex machina should not be used as a tool to resolve the complexities of the plot in a way that feels contrived or unexpected without proper narrative building.