“Vindex” derives from Latin and literally means “champion, protector”. According to R.B. Appleton’s article The Deus ex Machina en Euripides, the word was used by Horace to describe intervention of special character that would be needed in a play to resolve a situation that cannot be resolved otherwise. In the final part of the article Appleton notes that there are certain things that are too complex to be simply explained, but Euripides tried to do that through bringing vindex into his plays. At that point it mainly implied superior and powerful god.

Nowadays, few people would believe in the power of ancient Greek gods to magically appear and resolve any situation. However, based on Appleton’s final statement, which was mentioned above, vindex could be interpreted as an abstract concept representing special intervention within each individual’s world that helps each person deal with difficult situations and keep going despite all obstacles. For instance, faith in God, positive thinking, inspirational music, etc..

As an example of modern interpretation of vindex I have attached music video by famous Ukrainian band Okean Elzy. The translation of the name of the song is “Everything will be good”. This could be my personal modern version of vindex.  

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