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NanakiXIII Posted 21 years ago
Vocabulary

Plot Device

Could someone tell me what a plot device is? Especially in this context:

*Frodo and Sam (yes, from LotR) are hanging from rope, being lowered into the fires of Mt. Doom, suddenly they stand on the edge of the ***
Frodo: Hey, how'd we get here?
Sam: Plot device, Mr. Frodo, plot device.
  

Top answer

A plot device is a method (often unrealistic enough that we notice it) used by an author to get from Point A to Point B in his story. In this case (though I don't have my copy of L of R Vol III handy), Frodo and Sam somehow manage to reach the crater's edge, although it is improbable or impossible, because JRR needs to put them there in order to advance his plot-- they are now waiting for Gwaihir the Windlord, perhaps.

— Mister Micawber

  • A plot device is a method (often unrealistic enough that we notice it) used by an author to get from Point A to Point B in his story.
  • In this case (though I don't have my copy of L of R Vol III handy), Frodo and Sam somehow manage to reach the crater's edge, although it is improbable or impossible, because JRR needs to put them there in order to advance his plot-- they are now waiting for Gwaihir the Windlord, perhaps.
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2 Answers
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A plot device is a method (often unrealistic enough that we notice it) used by an author to get from Point A to Point B in his story. In this case (though I don't have my copy of L of R Vol III handy), Frodo and Sam somehow manage to reach the crater's edge, although it is improbable or impossible, because JRR needs to put them there in order to advance his plot-- they are now waiting for Gwaihi
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It's not actually from LotR but from a parody of it. But that doesn't matter, I think I understand. Thank you.
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