resolution definition literature essay

Definition of Resolution

The literary device resolution means the unfolding or solution of a complicated issue in a story . Technically, resolution is also known as a “ denouement .” Most of the instances of resolution are presented in the final parts or chapters of a story. It mostly follows the climax .

In certain mystery novels, climax and resolution may occur simultaneously. However, in other forms of literature, resolution takes place at the end of the story. Considering that it ends a story, resolution is an integral part of the conflict of the story.

Examples of Resolution in Literature

Example #1: romeo and juliet (by william shakespeare).

Capulet: O brother Montague, give me thy hand. This is my daughter’s jointure, for no more Can I demand … Montague: But I can give thee more, For I will raise her statue in pure gold, That whiles Verona by that name is known, … As that of true and faithful Juliet … Capulet: As rich shall Romeo’s by his lady’s lie, Poor sacrifices of our enmity … Prince: A glooming peace this morning with it brings. The sun, for sorrow, will not show his head …

This is the final dialogue that takes place between Lord Capulet and Lord Montague. Seeing their beloved children, Romeo and Juliet, committing suicide for love, both the heads of the family regret their long enmity. Now both of them agree to end the dispute between their tribes to avoid future tragedy .

Example #2: The Great Gatsby (by F. Scott Fitzgerald)

“They’re a rotten crowd,” I shouted across the lawn. “You’re worth the whole damn bunch put together … “

Concluding the story “ The Great Gatsby ,” Nick makes his mind to return to Minnesota as an escape from the rich people. He knows that the rich people are engaged in morally worthless activities . That is why he is convinced that people in Gatsby’s circle are unfaithful.

Example #3: The Catcher in the Rye (by J.D. Salinger)

” … That’s all I’m going to tell about. I could probably tell you what I did after I went home, and how I got sick and all, and what school I’m supposed to go to next fall, after I get out of here, but I don’t feel like it. I really don’t. That stuff doesn’t interest me too much right now … I mean how do you know what you’re going to do till you do it? The answer is, you don’t. I think I am , but how do I know? I swear it’s a stupid question … “

The resolution in this story takes place in the final part of the novel . Holden, the protagonist , while living in a psychiatric facility, recounts the story. He provides readers with the details of his future plans. He informs us that he will go back home and attend school, meet his parents but only after enjoying the ride of a merry-go-round in Phoebe.

Example #4: The Winter’s Tale (by William Shakespeare)

Gentleman: One that gives out himself Prince Florizel/ Son of Polixenes, with his princess, she/ The fairest I have yet beheld, desires access… Leontes: What with him? he comes not/ Like to his father’s greatness: his approach,… Florizel: Most royal sir, from thence; from him, whose daughter His tears proclaim’d his, parting with her: thence/ A prosperous south-wind friendly, we have cross ’d… Leontes: My lord, Is this the daughter of a king? … His tears proclaim’d his, parting with her: thence… Leontes: My lord, Is this the daughter of a king…”

In these extracted lines from “The Winter ’s Tale,” the resolution occurs when Polixenes follows Florizel and Perdita to Sicily. After he finds out the true identity of Paulina, Polixenes and Leontes reconcile and both the families become happy. Leontes is also reunited with his family and discovers that Hermoin is alive.

The resolution is the final solution in literature. Almost all the genres of storytelling make use of resolution to end a story. Actually, resolution is required to wrap up a story, and it comes after the climax. Following a heart-racing and anxiety-triggering climax, resolution gives audiences the opportunity to relax. It brings all disturbing conflicts into order, and helps the central theme of the movie or novel to resonate. Its function of resolving the problem has made it highly significant. The story would be a disaster if the resolution is presented poorly.

What is Resolution in Literature? Definition, Examples of Literary Resolution

Resolution in a narrative indicates the solution to a complicated issue. In a narrative plot structure, resolution occurs after the climax of the story at the very end and is considered the final point in a story’s conflict.

What is a Resolution?

Resolution is the conclusion of a story’s plot and is a part of a complete conclusion to a story. The resolution occurs at the end of a story following the climax and falling action. In some stories, climax and resolution occur simultaneously but in that case are simply co-occurring points in the plot.

In Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare , the resolution is seen when both Romeo and Juliet have died and the heads of the dueling families, Lord Capulet and Lord Montague, express their sorrow over having caused the deaths of the children. They decide to end the feud between families to prevent any further tragedies.

Capulet: O brother Montague, give me thy hand. This is my daughter’s jointure, for no more Can I demand …

Montague: But I can give thee more, For I will raise her statue in pure gold, That whiles Verona by that name is known, … As that of true and faithful Juliet …

Capulet: As rich shall Romeo’s by his lady’s lie, Poor sacrifices of our enmity …

Prince: A glooming peace this morning with it brings. The sun, for sorrow, will not show his head …

Modern Examples of Resolution

In any well-developed story, there will be a meaningful conflict with a meaningful resolution at the end. Here are some examples of popular works of literature and their resolutions.

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger sees its resolution in the last chapter. Holden Caulfield is in a psychiatric care facility and outlines some of his future plans for the readers. He hopes to return to school but is not overly thrilled. The resolution comes from the fact that he’s decided to return to a sense of normalcy and continue with his plans:

That’s all I’m going to tell about. I could probably tell you what I did after I went home, and how I got sick and all, and what school I’m supposed to go to next fall, after I get out of here, but I don’t feel like it. I really don’t. That stuff doesn’t interest me too much right now… I mean how do you know what you’re going to do till you do it? The answer is, you don’t. I think I am, but how do I know?

Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby sees its resolution in the narrator reflecting on what he’s experienced and learned in his time spent getting to know the characters. In a poetic and wistful use a language, the resolution is served with a side of nostalgia and the sense comes across that the narrator will be moving on and the events of the novel are officially in the past:

And as I sat there brooding on the old, unknown world, I thought of Gatsby’s wonder when he first picked out the green light at the end of Daisy’s dock. He had come a long way to this blue lawn, and his dream must have seemed so close that he could hardly fail to grasp it. He did not know that it was already behind him, somewhere back in that vast obscurity beyond the city, where the dark fields of the republic rolled on under the night.

Gatsby believed in the green light, the orgastic future that year by year recedes before us. It eluded us then, but that’s no matter — to-morrow we will run faster, stretch out our arms farther….

So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.

The Purpose of Resolution

The resolution of a story is the final element and is therefore required to end a story in a satisfying manner. Following the climax and the falling action, the resolution ties together all elements of a story in a way that creates a feeling a completion to readers.

A story is not complete in terms of plot structure if it does not have a resolution. In action-packed stories, resolution gives audiences a chance to breathe a sigh of relief and to relax. The intensity is over, and a more comfortable point has been reached where tensions are low and conflict is resolved.

Additionally, resolution ties together elements of theme and can allow the overall storyline to resonate with readers and audiences one final time. Important aspects to the story are emphasized and theme is reinforced with one last message to readers.

How Resolution is Used in Literature

In the poem “Those Winter Sundays” by Robert Hayden , the poet remises about times his father showed his love through acts of kindness. The poem resolves with a reflection about love and reinforces the themes of fatherly love and selflessness:

What did I know, what did I know of love’s austere and lonely offices?

J.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit sees resolution after the intense adventures and battles come to an end. The evil Smaug has been defeated and Gandalf takes Bilbo Baggins back to his hobbit hole in The Shire. Bilbo is happy to be home and it is indicated that he lives for many years thereafter just the way he always wanted: in peace and simplicity. There is a satisfaction that Bilbo was able to return to his dear way of living after fearing that leading a hero’s life would forever remove him from the modest life he loved so much. The idea that one cannot have both is challenged in this way. In the resolution, there is a clear message that some of the world’s evils would not exist if everyone lived the way Bilbo did:

“If more of us valued food and cheer and song above hoarded gold, it would be a merrier world.”

Recap: What is Resolution in Literature?

Resolution is a key part of any story’s plot structure. Without a resolution, readers would be left feeling unsatisfied and a story would, by all accounts, be incomplete. Resolution serves to tie together any lingering loose threads and to reinforce important aspects of the stories themes.

What Is Resolution in Literature?

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In a work of literature , the resolution is the part of the story's plot where the main problem is resolved or worked out. The resolution occurs after the falling action and is typically where the story ends. Another term for the resolution is "dénouement," which comes from the French term dénoué, meaning "to untie."

Freytag's Pyramid

The dramatic structure of a story, whether it is a Greek tragedy or a Hollywood blockbuster, typically includes several elements. Gustav Freytag, a German writer, identified five essential elements— exposition , rising action , climax, falling action, and dénouement—that together form a story's "dramatic arc." These elements can be plotted on a chart, known as Freytag's pyramid, with the climax at the peak.

Rising and Falling Action

The left side of the chart, including the exposition and the rising action, represents the background information and the events that build toward the climax, the point of greatest interest in the story and the point where the protagonist typically undergoes a dramatic change or reversal of fate. The right side of the chart, including the falling action and the dénouement, is what follows the climax. This is the part of the story where conflicts are resolved and tension is released. Often there is a catharsis of some kind, an emotional release that brings satisfaction to the reader.

During the dénouement, or resolution, questions and mysteries that arise during the story are typically—though not always—answered and explained. All complete stories have a resolution, even if the author doesn't disclose every last detail to the reader.

Examples of Resolutions

Because every story has a resolution—whether the story is told through a book, a movie, or a play—examples of resolutions are ubiquitous. The examples below help explain the role of the resolution within the larger dramatic arc.

'Peter Pan'

In J.M. Barrie's "Peter Pan," the titular hero—a young boy who loves adventure and never grows old—invites a group of London children to visit the fictional island of Neverland, a magical place home to pirates and mermaids. The rising action of the story is made up of the children's many adventures, which culminate in a battle between Peter Pan and a one-handed pirate, the dreaded Captain Hook.

After Peter defeats Captain Hook, he takes control of the pirate's ship and sails it back to London, where Wendy and the other children return to their home. This resolution brings the story back to where it began, the children safe and snug in their beds, away from harm. They have learned a lot from their experience, and are changed for it, but the story has reached a point of stasis, having resolved all of the problems and conflicts created by the rising action.

George Orwell's '1984'

A much different resolution occurs in George Orwell's "1984." This dystopian novel, published in 1949, tells the story of Winston Smith, a government employee whose curiosity about the workings of the ruling party lead to great trouble and misery. By the end of the book, Winston is an enemy of the state, and after he is captured by the Thought Police he is sent to Room 101, a torture chamber where victims are confronted with their worst fears. At the prospect of being placed in a cage with rats, Winston is overcome with panic and terror. His spirit broken, he finally betrays his lover, Julia, abandoning his last bit of humanity in a final cry of surrender. "Do it to Julia!" he shouts, begging to be released. This is the climax of the novel, the point at which Winston makes an irreversible decision, one that marks a fundamental change in his character.

A Different Man Entirely

Later, after his release, he sits alone in a cafe. He is no longer an enemy of the state, an opponent of the mysterious leader known as Big Brother. He is a different man entirely:

"Two gin-scented tears trickled down the sides of his nose. But it was all right, everything was all right, the struggle was finished. He had won the victory over himself. He loved Big Brother."

The story ends on an unambiguous note. It is, in a sense, a classical resolution, eliminating any mystery about where Winston's allegiances lie. The man is defeated completely, and all of the tension that has propelled the novel is released. There is no longer a question of whether Winston will uncover the truth, or whether the Party will stop him first. By the end, we have the answer.

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Definition of Resolution

The literary device resolution means the unfolding or solution of a complicated issue in a story. Technically, resolution is also known as a “ denouement .” Most of the instances of resolution are presented in the final parts or chapters of a story. It mostly follows the climax .

Examples of Resolution in Literature

Example #1: romeo and juliet (by william shakespeare).

Capulet: O brother Montague, give me thy hand. This is my daughter’s jointure, for no more Can I demand … Montague: But I can give thee more, For I will raise her statue in pure gold, That whiles Verona by that name is known, … As that of true and faithful Juliet … Capulet: As rich shall Romeo’s by his lady’s lie, Poor sacrifices of our enmity … Prince: A glooming peace this morning with it brings. The sun, for sorrow, will not show his head …

Example #2: The Great Gatsby (by F. Scott Fitzgerald)

“They’re a rotten crowd,” I shouted across the lawn. “You’re worth the whole damn bunch put together … “

Concluding the story “The Great Gatsby,” Nick makes his mind to return to Minnesota as an escape from the rich people. He knows that the rich people are engaged in morally worthless activities. That is why he is convinced that people in Gatsby’s circle are unfaithful.

Example #3: The Catcher in the Rye (by J.D. Salinger)

” … That’s all I’m going to tell about. I could probably tell you what I did after I went home, and how I got sick and all, and what school I’m supposed to go to next fall, after I get out of here, but I don’t feel like it. I really don’t. That stuff doesn’t interest me too much right now … I mean how do you know what you’re going to do till you do it? The answer is, you don’t. I think I am, but how do I know? I swear it’s a stupid question … “

The resolution in this story takes place in the final part of the novel. Holden, the protagonist , while living in a psychiatric facility, recounts the story. He provides readers with the details of his future plans. He informs us that he will go back home and attend school, meet his parents but only after enjoying the ride of a merry-go-round in Phoebe.

Example #4: The Winter’s Tale (by William Shakespeare)

Gentleman: One that gives out himself Prince Florizel/ Son of Polixenes, with his princess, she/ The fairest I have yet beheld, desires access… Leontes: What with him? he comes not/ Like to his father’s greatness: his approach,… Florizel: Most royal sir, from thence; from him, whose daughter His tears proclaim’d his, parting with her: thence/ A prosperous south-wind friendly, we have cross’d… Leontes: My lord, Is this the daughter of a king? … His tears proclaim’d his, parting with her: thence… Leontes: My lord, Is this the daughter of a king…”

In these extracted lines from “The Winter’s Tale,” the resolution occurs when Polixenes follows Florizel and Perdita to Sicily. After he finds out the true identity of Paulina, Polixenes and Leontes reconcile and both the families become happy. Leontes is also reunited with his family and discovers that Hermoin is alive.

The resolution is the final solution in literature. Almost all the genres of storytelling make use of resolution to end a story. Actually, resolution is required to wrap up a story, and it comes after the climax . Following a heart-racing and anxiety-triggering climax , resolution gives audiences the opportunity to relax. It brings all disturbing conflicts into order, and helps the central theme of the movie or novel to resonate. Its function of resolving the problem has made it highly significant. The story would be a disaster if the resolution is presented poorly.

English Studies

This website is dedicated to English Literature, Literary Criticism, Literary Theory, English Language and its teaching and learning.

Resolution: A Literary Device

In literature, resolution serves as the denouement or final stage in a narrative, representing the culmination of the story’s central conflict.

Resolution: Etymology, Literal and Conceptual Meanings

Table of Contents

Etymology of “Resolution”: The term “resolution” originates from the Latin word “resolutio,” derived from the verb “resolvere,” meaning “to loosen” or “to release.” In Middle English, the word took on the sense of “breaking into parts” or “analyzing,” eventually evolving to encompass the notion of determination and decision-making. The etymology suggests a process of untangling or clarifying, highlighting the dual aspects of breaking down complexity and arriving at a firm decision or commitment.

Literal and Conceptual Meanings:

Resolution: definition as a literary device.

In literature, resolution serves as the denouement or final stage in a narrative , representing the culmination of the story’s central conflict . It is the point at which loose ends are tied, questions are answered, and a sense of closure is provided to the reader. The resolution often brings clarity, resolving uncertainties, and offering insights into the characters’ fates or the broader thematic elements of the work.

Resolution: Types

Resolution : examples in everyday life.

Description: Resolving disagreements or conflicts in a professional setting to foster a positive work environment.
Example: A team meeting is held to address differing opinions on a project, and a compromise is reached through open communication and negotiation.
Description: Setting personal goals or intentions for self-improvement at the beginning of a new year.
Example: Deciding to exercise regularly, eat healthier, or learn a new skill in the coming year as part of a New Year’s resolution.
Description: Settling disputes or disagreements within a family to maintain harmony and understanding.
Example: Siblings resolving a disagreement by discussing their concerns and finding a compromise that satisfies all parties involved.
Description: Settling legal conflicts or disputes outside of a courtroom through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods.
Example: Parties involved in a contract dispute opting for mediation to reach a mutually acceptable resolution without going to court.
Description: Making decisions or plans to improve one’s financial situation or achieve specific financial goals.
Example: Creating a budget, reducing unnecessary expenses, and saving money to achieve financial stability and security.
Description: Committing to lifestyle changes for improved health and well-being.
Example: Resolving to quit smoking, adopt a regular exercise routine, or make dietary changes to enhance overall health.
Description: Addressing misunderstandings or conflicts with friends to maintain healthy and supportive relationships.
Example: Friends discussing and resolving a disagreement to preserve their friendship and mutual understanding.
Description: Taking steps to overcome procrastination and accomplish tasks in a timely manner.
Example: Creating a daily schedule, breaking down tasks into smaller steps, and setting deadlines to address and overcome procrastination habits.

These examples illustrate how resolutions are a common aspect of daily life, encompassing a range of scenarios from personal growth and health to interpersonal relationships and professional settings.

Resolution in Literature: Suggested Readings

Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice . Penguin, 2003.
Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet . Edited by Brian Gibbons, Oxford UP, 2000.
Dickens, Charles. A Tale of Two Cities . Oxford UP, 2008.
Hugo, Victor. Les Misérables . Signet Classics, 2013.
Wilde, Oscar. The Importance of Being Earnest . Dover Publications, 1990.
Joyce, James. Dubliners . Dover Publications, 1991.
Sophocles. Oedipus Rex . Translated by David Mulroy, Wisconsin UP, 2011.
Vonnegut, Kurt. Breakfast of Champions . Dial Press Trade Paperback, 1999.
King, Stephen. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft . Scribner, 2000.
Laurie, Hugh. The Gun Seller . Vintage, 1998.

Related terms

Climax : The climax is the highest point of tension or excitement in a story, usually occurring right before the resolution.

Denouement : The denouement is the part of a story that follows the resolution, where any remaining questions or loose ends are further explained or explored.

Falling Action : Falling action refers to events that occur after the climax but before the resolution, leading towards its eventual conclusion.

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What is the Resolution of a Story? Definition, Examples Resolutions in Literature

Home » The Writer’s Dictionary » What is the Resolution of a Story? Definition, Examples Resolutions in Literature

Resolution literary definition: The resolution can be defined as the ending of a story.

What is a Resolution in Literature?

The resolution of a story is the ending. It is the part of the plot in Freytag’s pyramid that follows the falling action where the story’s conflict is resolved.

Example of Resolution

In Disney’s Cinderella, Cinderella is faced with the conflict of being treated like a servant by her stepmother and stepsisters after her father’s death.

The whole city is invited to a ball at the palace so that Prince Charming can attempt to find a young bride. Cinderella does everything in her power to receive permission from her stepmother to attend the ball to no avail. Luckily, she is aided by the Fairy Godmother and is able to secretly attend.

While there, Prince Charming falls in love with her, but he is unable to attain her name because she races off to be home on time. All he is left with is her slipper. He searches all over for the young woman whose foot will fit the shoe, and the story resolves when he slips it on Cinderella’s foot. The shoe fits, and they get married and live happily ever after.

The Function of Resolution

Resolutions are important components to stories. This point in the plot offers a solution to the central conflict introduced in the beginning of the story. While not all resolutions are uplifting, they do tend to add closure for the reader.

Modern Examples of Resolution

In the popular children’s story Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss, the character Sam is trying to get his friend to try green eggs and ham, but his friend continues to refuse to try them. At the climax of this story, he tries the food, and in the resolution, he reveals that he does indeed like green eggs and ham. The resolution brings closure to the conflict.

In the family movie Home Alone , the protagonist, Kevin McCallister, faces the conflict of being accidently left home alone while his family takes a trip to Paris, France. The conflict becomes increasingly complicated, for Kevin must protect his residence from burglars who are aware of his situation. This conflict is brought to its climax when the burglars make their way into Kevin’s home and fights to protect his residence. The movie’s resolution occurs when the burglars get arrested and Kevin’s family finally makes their way back to their son.

Examples of Resolution in Literature

In the drama Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, the resolution occurs in the final act. In this drama the resolution is the catastrophic suicides of the young lovers Romeo and Juliet who struggled against fate to be with one another.

In the novella Anthem by Ayn Rand , the protagonist, Equality, struggles against the ways of his dystopian society that rejects intellectualism and individuality. This conflict resolves itself in the end where he escapes this society with his lover to begin a new society that embraces knowledge and uniqueness.

Summary: What is Resolution?

Define resolution in literature: The resolution is the part of the plot in which the conflict is solved. While the solution does not always result in a happy ending, an effective resolution will offer some closure for the reader.

Final Example:

In the short story The Tell-Tale Heart by Edgar Allan Poe, the protagonist murders an old man because the old man’s cataracts torment him. These evil eyes have driven him mad, so he murders the man and places his dismembered body under the floorboards of the house.

When the police arrive, he attempts to maintain his calm composure until he believes he hears the old man’s heart beating beneath the floor. He no longer remains calm, and the story’s resolution occurs when he confesses his crime to the police officers.

What Is a Resolution? Definition & 25+ Examples

Have you ever found yourself so entranced by a story that when you reach the end, you exhale, realizing you’ve been holding your breath in suspense? This all-too-common experience points to the pivotal role of “resolution” in literature.

It’s that moment when loose ends intertwine, quandaries untangle, and the characters finally exhale along with us. Not just an end, but an illumination, the resolution has the power to reshape our understanding of the story’s journey, leaving an indelible mark that transcends the final page.

Let’s unravel this potent literary element and explore its magic together.

Table of Contents

Defining Resolution

The term “resolution” in literature, often referred to as the dénouement , signifies the final section of a narrative where the central conflict or problem is decisively addressed and resolved. It’s the point at which the plot’s various strands are drawn together, loose ends are tied up, and a sense of closure or completion is achieved.

Following the climax or the story’s peak tension point, the resolution offers an outcome for the characters, demonstrating their evolution throughout the narrative. It reflects the consequences of the events that have unfolded and provides an emotional release for both the characters and the reader.

The resolution serves as an integral part of the narrative arc, influencing the reader’s final impression of the story and underlining its overarching themes and messages.

Importance of Resolution

Resolution ties up loose ends and provides closure to a story.

A resolution is a crucial element in literature, as it ties up loose ends and provides closure to a story. A satisfying resolution leaves readers with a sense of completion and contributes to their overall enjoyment of the work.

Resolution Serves the Purpose of Resolving Conflicts

In many stories, the resolution serves the purpose of resolving conflicts, both internal and external . Characters may experience personal growth or gain new insights as they overcome obstacles. This growth can lead to emotional resolution, allowing readers to connect with characters on a deeper level. Additionally, external conflicts often drive the plot , and resolving them can help maintain the story’s momentum.

Resolution Highlights the Lessons Learned by The Characters

One must also consider the role resolution plays in developing themes and messages in a literary work. By providing closure, resolution often highlights the key takeaways and lessons learned by the characters. This in turn helps readers to reflect on their own lives and experiences, thus enriching their engagement with the material.

Resolutions Can Enhance the Story’s Structure and Pacing

Moreover, well-crafted resolutions can enhance the story’s structure and pacing. A well-planned resolution ensures that all storylines and subplots are brought to their appropriate endpoints. An effective resolution answers the questions raised during the narrative and ties up any ambiguities, allowing readers to fill in the gaps and fully comprehend the author’s intent.

Functions of Resolution

Resolution provides a sense of closure.

Resolution serves various important functions in literature. One primary function is to provide a sense of closure, which allows readers to feel satisfied with the conclusion of the story. The resolution ties up loose ends and answers any lingering questions that may have been presented throughout the narrative.

Resolution Reveals the Final Consequences of The Character’s Choices and Actions

Another function is to reveal the final consequences of the character’s choices and actions. This is crucial in understanding the moral or message the author is trying to convey. For example, characters who learn from their mistakes or face consequences can exhibit personal growth and provide valuable lessons to readers.

Resolutions Can Highlight the Theme of The Story

By examining how the narrative’s conflicts and tensions are resolved, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the underlying message that the author wants to convey. This understanding can then be applied to the reader’s own experiences and worldview.

Resolutions May Leave the Audience with An Open-Ended or Ambiguous Ending

In some instances, resolutions may leave the audience with an open-ended or ambiguous ending. This allows room for interpretation and sparks discussions about the various possible outcomes. Open-ended resolutions challenge readers to use their imagination and critical thinking skills, engaging them well beyond the final page of the story.

Elements of Resolution

In literature, resolution is the final stage in a story’s plot, where conflicts are resolved and loose ends are tied up. It is also commonly known as dénouement, a French term meaning “untying.” This section will discuss the essential elements of resolution in literature.

Climax of The Story

One key element of resolution is the climax of the story. This is the point where the central conflict reaches its peak and the tension is highest. The climax is typically followed by the falling action , which leads to the resolution. The protagonist may achieve their goal, fail, or experience a combination of success and failure.

Change in The Characters

Another crucial element of resolution is the change in the characters. Throughout the story, characters undergo transformations, and these changes play an essential role in the resolution. For instance, the protagonist may learn an essential lesson or acquire new values that help them overcome the conflicts they face.

Tying up Of Subplots

The tying up of subplots can also contribute to the resolution. Many stories include subplots, which are smaller narratives that add complexity to the main plot. These subplots often follow their own arc, which generally ties into the main story. As the story reaches its resolution, these subplots are typically resolved as well.

Explanation of Mysterious Occurrences

In some instances, a resolution may involve an explanation of mysterious occurrences or the unveiling of hidden information. The author may provide crucial details that tie the story together and make the narrative more meaningful. This type of resolution helps the reader feel satisfied upon finishing the story and often elicits an emotional response.

Types of Resolution

Happy resolution.

In a happy resolution, the protagonist achieves their goal and overcomes obstacles, leading to a satisfying or joyful conclusion. This type of resolution often occurs in romantic comedies, adventure stories, and fairy tales. Characters find love, win battles, or gain personal insight, bringing happiness to themselves and often to others.

Tragic Resolution

Tragic resolutions are marked by the downfall of the protagonist or other major characters, resulting in negative outcomes. Tragedies, such as those written by Shakespeare, often feature this type of resolution. Loss, suffering, or death may be major elements of these endings.

Bittersweet Resolution

A bittersweet resolution occurs when a story offers a mixture of happiness and sadness, combining elements of both victory and defeat. Characters may experience growth or understanding but at the same time, face losses, disappointments, or unresolved issues.

Unresolved Ending

An unresolved ending intentionally leaves the reader with questions or uncertainties, as it doesn’t conclude the story definitively. These endings can be found in various genres, such as mystery, thriller, or dystopian fiction, and often provoke thought or discussion among readers.

Twist Ending

A twist ending surprises readers with an unexpected turn of events. This type of resolution can involve plot twists, revelations, or significant character changes, leading to a dramatic, memorable conclusion.

Moral Resolution

In a moral resolution, the conclusion emphasizes the moral or ethical lessons learned by the protagonist or by the reader. Fables, parables, and some children’s stories often include moral resolutions, in which the protagonist’s experiences serve as cautionary or instructive tales for the audience.

Ambiguous Resolution

Ambiguous resolutions are those that do not provide a clear-cut ending or a definitive outcome. Instead, they leave the reader questioning the ultimate fate or decisions of the characters. Ambiguity in a resolution can be seen in literary works like Franz Kafka’s “The Metamorphosis” or F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby.”

Deus Ex Machina

Deus ex machina is a sudden, unexpected resolution that involves an external force, such as divine intervention or an improbable coincidence, which resolves the story’s conflicts. This literary device, which has its roots in ancient Greek tragedy, can be found in many stories, including science fiction and fantasy tales.

Circular or Cyclical Resolution

A circular or cyclical resolution is a type of ending where the story comes full circle or repeats itself in some way. This can involve characters returning to where they started, a recurrence of motifs or themes, or a renewal of past dynamics, illustrating how nothing has changed or that history repeats itself.

Multiple Resolutions

Multiple resolutions can be found in stories with multiple plotlines, diverse protagonists, or complex themes. In these cases, different resolutions may be presented for different characters, settings, or conflicts. For example, the works of Charles Dickens or the “A Song of Ice and Fire” series by George R. R. Martin often contain multiple, intertwining plotlines with various resolutions.

Examples of Resolution in Literature

Short story, examples of resolution in pop culture, television show, the connection between resolution and other literary elements, characters and protagonist.

The resolution in literature is dependent on the characters, particularly the protagonist, as they drive the action of the story. Throughout a narrative, characters experience growth and change, ultimately leading to the resolution.

During this phase, the characters confront the consequences of their actions, and the protagonist often experiences a significant shift in perspective, resolving both internal and external conflicts.

Conflict and Climax

Resolution is connected to a story’s conflict and climax . The rising action leading to the climax generates the central conflict, while the resolution provides an answer or resolution to said conflict. After the story’s climax, the falling action paves the way for the final resolution or “ denouement .”

It is during this time that tensions slowly decrease, any loose ends are tied up, and questions are answered, providing readers with a sense of closure.

Theme and Central Message

The resolution also carries the story’s theme and central message, often cementing a narrative’s moral or lesson. While the theme is an underlying element throughout the story, it becomes most evident during the resolution.

As conflicts are settled and relationships between the characters are clarified, the overarching themes of the narrative are solidified, leaving the reader with the intended message or takeaway from the author.

Impact of Resolution on Literature

Resolution provides a satisfying conclusion to the story.

Resolutions have a significant impact on a reader’s experience with a piece of literature. They help to tie up loose ends and provide a satisfying conclusion to the story. Readers often seek closure, and a well-crafted resolution can deliver that, leaving them with a feeling of satisfaction.

One way that resolutions achieve this is by addressing the main conflicts or problems presented in the story and demonstrating how the characters have grown or changed throughout their journey. This can create a sense of accomplishment, validating the characters’ efforts and struggles and providing readers with a sense of completion.

Resolutions Can Contribute to A Sense of Emotional Catharsis for Readers

When a story reaches its conclusion, readers are given the opportunity to process their emotions and reactions to the events of the story, resulting in a purging of emotions or a release of emotional tension. This reflected resolution can be a rewarding experience for a reader.

Resolutions Can Serve to Drive Home Messages that The Author Wishes to Convey

In addition, resolutions can serve to drive home thematic elements or messages that the author wishes to convey. By clearly highlighting these themes at the end of the story, readers are more likely to internalize and appreciate the message or lesson offered.

However, not every piece of literature opts for a neatly wrapped resolution . Ambiguous or open-ended resolutions can also offer powerful effects. These endings leave the reader with lingering questions and an opportunity for introspection, allowing them to draw their own conclusions about the story and encouraging deeper engagement with the material.

Challenges of Crafting a Compelling Resolution

Balancing plot and character development.

Crafting a compelling resolution in literature is no easy feat, especially when it comes to balancing plot and character development. While a well-rounded plot should be engaging and constantly unfolding, character development must be gradual and well-timed. Ensuring that these two elements synchronize harmoniously is essential in creating an impactful resolution.

One approach to achieving this balance is to intertwine plot points with character beats . For instance, authors may reveal vital aspects of characters through their actions and reactions to specific events. Doing so allows readers to better understand and empathize with the characters while maintaining interest in the plot.

Another strategy involves alternating the focus between plot and character development . By shifting the emphasis back and forth, readers stay invested in both aspects of the story, ultimately leading to a more satisfying resolution.

Addressing Complex Issues

Another critical challenge in crafting a compelling resolution is addressing complex issues throughout the narrative. Often in literature, stories tackle important themes and subjects that don’t necessarily offer easy solutions or answers. To resolve such intricate matters effectively, authors must acknowledge the complexities and avoid oversimplifying them.

One way to approach complex issues is by providing multiple perspectives on the topic . This enables readers to grasp the nuances of the problem and the characters’ individual stances. Additionally, by incorporating realistic consequences and reactions to these issues, authors can provide a more authentic resolution, even if it doesn’t present a perfect solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a story have multiple resolutions.

Yes, in certain circumstances, stories can have multiple resolutions, especially when there are several subplots or multiple conflicts. Each subplot or conflict may have its resolution before the story concludes; however, the primary resolution typically focuses on the main plot and characters.

Can the resolution involve a twist?

Yes, the resolution of a story can definitely involve a twist. In fact, some of the most memorable story resolutions feature an unexpected turn of events or revelation. This surprise element can add a layer of excitement and make the conclusion of the story more impactful.

A twist in the resolution might involve a character revealing a hidden identity, an unexpected outcome of the story’s main conflict, or even a sudden change in the story’s setting or timeline. However, to be effective, such twists should be carefully set up throughout the story so they feel surprising yet plausible, rather than coming across as contrived or overly convenient.

Does a resolution have to resolve every conflict introduced in the story?

Not necessarily. While the resolution usually aims to resolve the main conflict of the story, it doesn’t always address every minor conflict or subplot. Some stories intentionally leave certain threads unresolved. This might be to maintain a sense of realism (since not all problems in life are neatly resolved), to provoke thought and discussion, or to leave room for a sequel or continuation.

However, leaving too many conflicts unresolved can leave readers feeling unsatisfied, so it’s important for authors to strike the right balance and ensure that the key conflicts driving the story are adequately addressed.

Does a resolution always have to be realistic?

A resolution does not always have to be realistic, but it should be consistent with the rules and the universe the story has established. In genres like fantasy, science fiction, or magical realism, the resolution might involve elements that are beyond the realm of our own reality. The key is that the resolution fits the narrative, characters, and world-building that has been set up throughout the story.

If the story has a more realistic tone and setting, a resolution that suddenly introduces unrealistic or fantastical elements without any foreshadowing or groundwork might feel jarring or unsatisfactory to readers. Thus, while realism isn’t a strict requirement, believability within the context of the story’s world is crucial.

How does a resolution contribute to the pacing of a story?

The resolution plays a significant role in the pacing of a story. After the climax, which is typically the most intense part of the narrative, the resolution provides a period of deceleration. This slowing down allows the narrative to gradually wrap up the plot, tie up loose ends, and provide closure for the characters and the reader.

The resolution essentially acts as a denouement, offering an opportunity for the characters and the audience to reflect on the events of the story and their implications. In this way, the resolution helps manage the story’s rhythm, transitioning it from the peak of the climax to the calm and closure of the ending.

In wrapping up our exploration of ‘resolution’ in literature, we can affirm its profound role in bringing stories full circle. The resolution not only ties up the narrative strands, but also leaves an enduring impression that often defines our entire experience of the story.

It carries the power to evoke a spectrum of emotions, underpin the story’s themes, and transmit the author’s intended message. Whether it’s a fairytale ending or a cliffhanger that leaves us yearning for more, the resolution is an indispensable component of storytelling, an art form that allows us to explore our humanity.

As we turn the final page, it’s the resolution that resonates within us, long after the book is closed.

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How to Write a Resolution for a Narrative Essay

If you have a compelling story to tell, a narrative essay might be the right format. These essays are often much more personal than argumentative or analytical essays, and frequently share details of personal struggles or beliefs. Without a resolution, your reader will be left hanging and might wonder what the point of the essay is. A well-crafted resolution can deliver the final punch to your paper and will help your reader understand the message you want to convey or the lessons you learned from the experience about which you have written.

Basic Narrative Outline

Before you begin to write, outline your essay. A good narrative essay tells a compelling story. You'll need to set the scene, build tension, present a conflict and provide commentary throughout the story. Once you've established these basic elements, your resolution can be much easier to write. For example, if your central conflict is between you and a difficult friend, your resolution should address how you ended the conflict or what you learned from it.

Developing a Thesis

Your thesis is a sentence or two addressing the main point of your essay, and it should guide your resolution. Narrative essays often have theses addressing what you've learned or why a particular story is relevant. For example, you might state that, "Through my disability, I've learned that hard work does pay off, but only when you reach out for help." Your resolution should re-address this point by providing final evidence of its truth or a final story demonstrating your thesis.

Building Tension

Although narrative essays are often less formal than some other essays, they still need basic structure and a coherent argument or narrative. Throughout your essay, you should build tension. For example, if you're writing about your struggle with a disability, you should dedicate each paragraph to a struggle you've faced or a way you've surmounted obstacles. This process of building tension makes for a more compelling resolution, because your resolution resolves this tension by, for example, showing how you beat the odds or arguing about the importance of the story you've shared.

The Resolution

Your resolution is the final paragraph of your essay or, if your essay is very long, the final few paragraphs. Specifically address the resolution of the conflict presented in your essay. Avoid restating your thesis or saying things like, "In conclusion..." or "I resolved this by..." Instead, your resolution should be more subtle and give the reader a sense of relief and clarity. You may also want to address any lingering questions or disagreements the reader might have. For example, if you are arguing that you have benefited from struggle, you might say something like, "Some people believe that struggle weakens you, but I've found that working through struggle creates a stronger and more resilient person."

Purdue Online Writing Lab: Narrative Essays

Van Thompson is an attorney and writer. A former martial arts instructor, he holds bachelor's degrees in music and computer science from Westchester University, and a juris doctor from Georgia State University. He is the recipient of numerous writing awards, including a 2009 CALI Legal Writing Award.

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Resolution—Tying up the Ends

We’ve all read perfect stories, novels that end on a high note with satisfying action and just the right amount of explanation and with a punch to our emotional centers.

We’ve also read novels that ended too soon, without allowing us a moment of reflection to appreciate all that had happened, or that went on for too long and dragged out a satisfying ending until we lost all the good feeling the story had raised in us.

How do writers do it, how do they craft their final pages to be just enough without either under- or overwhelming the plot or without deflating the bubble of satisfaction the reader enjoys after a great read?

We’re talking resolution here, the few pages that follow the climax of a story. A resolution can either highlight how truly enjoyable a story is or it can so ruin a good story that readers forget how much they enjoyed everything up to that point.

At story’s end, the warrior protagonist has found victory or defeat, hero and heroine have declared their love, the detective has caught his murderer, and the lone wolf of an agent has saved the world.

But what happens next?

Win or lose, we can’t leave our warrior on the battlefield, bloodied sword in hand. The lovers need a moment to reflect on their love and the trials they faced and overcame to reach that love. The detective considers what his latest case has cost him and whether he can face another when the stakes are so high. The government agent discovers those who helped him in his quest to best the world’s worst villain.

How do you move from the battlefield or the declaration of undying love or the unmasking of the murderer and go to “The End”?

You write a resolution.

You tie up loose ends and bring completion to all the threads you so carefully laid out for the reader’s entertainment . You finish the story. You give the reader enough explanation that he’ll be fully satisfied by your tale.

What should you include in the final pages? What must you include? What should be skipped?

Because each story is different in terms of length, tone, intensity of final scenes, genre, and number of sub-plots and story threads, there is no one answer to these questions. The resolution must fit the story, each element of the story. And as no stories are alike, no resolutions will be alike. Not in every way.

You will come closest to conformity within genres. Thus series romance may recommend a five-page final chapter for the resolution. A political thriller might allow for a longer resolution in order to tie up major story threads involving several characters.

Yet, even with multiple options, writers can learn the skills necessary for writing strong resolutions and learn how to adapt those skills to make the resolution of every story a satisfying one that fits, that completes the puzzle, that answers the vital questions.

No one wants story gaps in the final pages. Readers want to know what happened and how and why . And they want those answers for each of the major plot threads and characters, including protagonist, antagonist, and any other characters they’ve come to care about.

If the writer has done her job, readers will care about one or more characters. Readers will need to know how the characters’ lives play out, how all that they’ve faced will change them.

No, they don’t need to know every thing about every one; with solid hints and a clear presentation of characters, readers will be able to fill in a lot of blanks. But if you gave a plot thread importance in terms of event or motivation, then you need to resolve that plot thread by story’s end. And you need to show how major characters have been changed by what they’ve faced and what they’ve done, activities far outside what they’re accustomed to in their normal lives.

___________________________________

Keep in mind that not all characters will be satisfied at the end of your novel. But readers should be.

That is, not every character will get what she wants, what she’s been striving for throughout the book. But readers should feel that the end was inevitable and that you fulfilled your part of the writer/reader contract by providing a satisfactory and logical resolution for the situation and the characters you created.

What, then, should you consider as you write your resolution?

Length A novella or short novel doesn’t need a resolution 30 pages long. An epilogue of two or three pages should be sufficient and allow the ending to feel balanced.

A novel with few secondary plots or plot threads also won’t need a complex, detailed, or long resolution.

A story with a complex plot, however, requires a longer and more detailed resolution in order to satisfy the reader. You want readers to know what happened as a result of the actions of story events and climax without them having to guess.

Resolutions shouldn’t be so long that they leach the emotion from the ending.

It’s better to leave readers wanting more than to undo a good story by boring readers right at the end. But better still is giving readers just enough in the resolution.

Resolutions should be sufficiently full for their novels. It’s jarring, almost a slap to the reader, to come to the end of a novel only to find you’ve been cheated of the true ending. The protagonist might have succeeded at his quest, but what does that mean for him and those close to him? If you don’t show the impact of the final actions, both character and reader are cheated .

Thus the protagonist might win, but how will that affect him? What has he learned? How will his life be different? In what ways have his adventures changed his outlook?

The answers to these questions don’t need to be addressed directly—you could show the cost of a hero’s quest when he returns home victorious only to find that home burned to the foundations, his family dead at the command of the very men he defeated.

Or, you could actually spell out what the protagonist learned, allowing the reader to hear his thoughts, understand what his actions and the actions of others mean for his life and his future.

Breathing Room You give the reader an opportunity to come down from the high of the climax by including an appropriate resolution. Provide a few moments so the reader can ponder all that has happened and what it all means for the characters and for the reader himself.

Use the resolution to give both characters and readers a place to breathe, to relax, to adjust to what has happened. Characters will need a break from the emotional ups and downs of the climax. Readers will need a moment of reflection and adjustment before stepping back into their own lives

Emotions Readers will come away from your novels feeling something. And what that something is, is created in great part by your resolution.

Readers may feel relief that your main character succeeded at his goals. But they also may feel a sense of vindication or that justice has been done. If your hero has lost a lot, even if he ultimately wins, they may feel his pain.

When you write your resolution, be sure to include the impact of choices on your protagonist and antagonist. This impact, the realization of what happened to the characters because of their actions, can stir strong emotions in the reader. Control your resolution by steering reader emotion in the direction you want it to go.

Direct the emotion by your word choices, by character reaction and thought, and by the choice of issues to focus on at the end of the story . What you turn the reader’s attention toward is that which will be important. Be sure to direct reader focus here at the end. What do you want the reader to remember? What emotion do you want her feeling when she closes the book? What deserves place of honor in the last pages ?

Balance Resolutions should be in balance with the rest of the story—not too long, not too short. Not overly detailed, not overly cryptic. Humorous if the story has been humorous, short on humor if the story hasn’t been funny.

Look Ahead Should you include an epilogue detailing what happens over the next few years in the life of the protagonist? You can. Some readers will love knowing what happens down the line. But others won’t want to know. Some readers want to envision the future without further prompting from the writer. Others don’t like to imagine the characters changing, growing older. They often want to remember characters as they’ve been presented in your story, in their moments of glory and fear, at those times most meaningful to their lives.

Decide how much of and how far into the future to include in your resolution.

You may only give the reader a summary of events of the next couple of days. But you could tell readers what a character will be doing 60 years in the future.

You could paint a complete picture of the main character’s life as a result of his actions and his involvement in his adventure.

Style The style of a resolution should match the other parts of the story, yet by its very nature, a resolution is different.

Most novel resolutions are written not in the dynamic phrasing of unfolding events and vibrant scenes but in exposition . And the resolution is typically summary.

You’ll have used exposition in your story in other places, but you’ll have followed it in those places with increased tension and conflict.

With the resolution, you are purposely reducing tension . Think of resolution as a means of settling the reader after making him undergo the drama of your story.

You settled the characters’ conflicts and the characters stood down and eased back, and so now the reader can relax as well.

After deliberately crafting your story for greatest impact, don’t destroy your painstaking work by tacking on a long, drawn-out section of summary.

Use your resolution to conclude the story you began on page one. Give it the right balance and choose the words and images you want readers to take away with them after they turn the final page.

Take one last opportunity to focus the reader’s attention exactly where you want it. Spotlight the key elements from the story. Spotlight the lead character’s realizations and conclusions. Maybe his new goals and his personal resolutions.

Remember reader emotion in the resolution.

Ease back on conflict. Reduce tension. Slow the story without stalling it. Use word choices to keep summary lively.

Make your resolutions work for you; in them are the last words and images readers will see.

Choose those words and images with care and an eye toward impact.

Be deliberate in what you include and in what you exclude.

Write resolutions worthy of your stories, worthy of the 90,000 words that precede them.

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6 Responses to “Resolution—Tying up the Ends”

Great article! Something I’m wondering about, though: How does this apply if you’re planning to write a sequel to your book? How much should you “leave” for the next? How many plot threads can you leave untied?

Great questions, Amber.

I would first suggest that you make sure you’ve given readers enough of the protagonist or antagonist of the next book in the current book so that those readers will be hoping for the next book. Weave in hints about future books by giving characters who’ll be featured in those books a mysterious back story or some unresolved issue that they mention but don’t really get into. This catches the reader’s attention, but doesn’t become such a part of the current story that it needs to be resolved.

You can have the characters from the next book distracted by their own problems, so much so that they almost mess up their part in the climax. Of course they don’t mess up, but it costs them something to come through for the protagonist of the current book. Thus the reader is again intrigued by this character.

And in the final pages, you’ll want to show the characters from the next story looking off—or riding off—eager to get back home or to a problem that needs solving in their own lives. Or you have them excited for their friends and their victory, but sad about or distracted by some unnamed issue.

You don’t want to overplay, but you do want to tantalize. Get the reader interested by appealing to her emotions or to the part of her that can’t resist a puzzle when it’s introduced.

If the same characters will be in a follow-up story, hint at the story dilemma in the final pages. Again, don’t overplay the problem because readers will expect a resolution. Instead, give a bare hint of an issue that’s calling the character into his next story. Satisfy the current story, but allow the character to peer ahead.

You could always repeat an element that got the protagonist started in the current story. Say a mysterious letter prompted the protagonist to dive into the current story. At the end, show another letter being delivered. This could be done with humor or in seriousness, but the repeat of the opening element—and the character’s reaction to it—would lead toward another story to come. And because this is done at the very end, there wouldn’t be any threads left dangling. The look on the character’s face or his final words would be the transition from this book to the next.

Of course, when you get to the next book, you don’t have to use the device you used to close the first book. It could have been simply a letter, nothing mysterious to it at all.

As to the number of plot threads you can leave unresolved . . .

I wouldn’t leave any major threads unresolved. Not if they have to do with the current story. Even minor threads, if they touch major characters or characters the readers have come to know well, should be resolved. Or the promise of answers in the next book has to be made clear. But you can’t guarantee that another book will be finished or that readers will ever read it. Satisfy the parts of the current story that you used to keep the reader interested in these characters and their problems.

I hope that gives you some ideas. This topic might need an article of its own . . .

Thanks, Beth! I totally understand what you’re saying, to satisfy the main plot, but you can leave some small details or sometimes back-stories or conflicts open to solve later on. In my story, the characters have the main conflict to deal with, (an evil sorcerer from destroying a certain world, yeah, very fictional) but along side all this, they are all supposedly “connected” through an event, and also seem to be drawn to this issue. Of course, the villian isn’t completely defeated, and to draw a continuation to the story, I would leave the event still undiscovered to the characters. I think it closes some of the issue, yet leaves the readers paying attention the side-plots saying, “Wait! What about this?!” And what I want is involved readers, after all :). The only things I still have questions about is the whole “hanging plot threads” part, but besides that, you answered all my questions! Thanks!

Its always great to read ideas on how to write fantastic stories and how to develop the plot, complication and resolution. I am a teacher so I keep on browsing such sites to get ideas. But what distresses me is that not many of these pages have good examples to back up what they are saying. Examples are always the best way to get across your ideas to the reader so I don’t know why not many people use them on these websites.

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Dénouement Definition

What is a dénouement? Here’s a quick and simple definition:

The dénouement is the final section of a story's plot, in which loose ends are tied up, lingering questions are answered, and a sense of resolution is achieved. The shortest and most well known dénouement, it could be said, is "And they lived happily ever after." Most stories, however, require a longer concluding section to achieve a sense of resolution.

Some additional key details about dénouements:

The dénouement follows the story's falling action section, in which the tension stemming from the story's main conflict begins to wind down.
The word "dénouement" comes from French, and literally means "unknotting." But a more faithful translation would be "outcome," "resolution," or "finale."
Dénouement can be spelled with or without the accent over the first "e."

How to Pronounce Dénouement

Here's how to pronounce dénouement: day-noo- moh

Dénouements in Depth

It would be easy to think that the word "dénouement" is just a fancy way of saying "ending"—and in many ways, that's not far from the truth. But dénouement is a specific word that has to do with achieving a sense of resolution and showing the outcome of the story's main events. While a great many endings do this, not all of them do. Moreover, the dénouement of a story is a specific section of the story, which itself has a beginning and ending. Here are a few of the key defining features of dénouement to help you identify it:

It follows the falling action. The falling action is the portion of the story which follows the climax and ends with a resolution of the plot's central conflict or tension. But the falling action generally doesn't answer all the questions that arose during the rising action or tie up all the loose ends, and this is where the dénouement comes in.
It ties up loose ends and answers unanswered questions. There are often many plot points that the audience wants addressed even after the central conflict has been resolved (e.g, What became of that one character? Where will the main characters go from here? What about the bad guys that got away?). The dénouement is the time for addressing these points. The dénouement may not answer all the unanswered questions of the story, but by the time the dénouement is over, it's clear that any lingering questions will remain unanswered.
It can also serve as an epilogue . The dénouement often shows how the events of the story fit into the broader scheme of history or the lives of the main characters. For example, it might give the audience a sense of how the characters were changed by the story, and of what the future will hold for them. This is the "outcome" component of the dénouement, and it often takes the form of a leap forward in time (e.g., "Ten years later..."), but it might also just show the characters going about their lives, which have usually changed in some significant way as a result of the events of the story.
It may not always feel like a resolution. While the well-known fairytale dénouement of "happily ever after" really is how many stories end, another common way to write a dénouement is to suggest, in the story's final moments, that the root of the story's main conflict may not have been solved or addressed—with the implication being that the story will continue to unfold, perhaps in a sequel or next installment. Such "To Be Continued" endings are also considered dénouements, even though it may seem like they do the opposite of helping the story reach a resolution. In short, "no resolution" is a type of resolution in itself.
When it ends, the story ends. Of course, endings are important, and the final words of the dénouement are also the final words of the story. Final words often reveal a lot about the outcome of the story in general, as well as the future of the characters beyond the story's end.

Dénouement and Freytag's Pyramid

One of the first and most influential people to create a framework for analyzing plots was 19th-century German writer Gustav Freytag, who argued that all plots can be broken down into five stages: exposition , rising action , climax , falling action , and dénouement. Freytag originally developed this theory as a way of describing the plots of plays at a time when most plays were divided into five acts, but his five-part "pyramid" can also be used to analyze the plots of other kinds of stories, including novels, short stories, films, and television shows. Here's the pyramid as originally defined by Freytag:

Freytag's Pyramid Doesn't Fit All Plots

While Freytag's pyramid is very handy, not every work of literature fits neatly into its structure. In fact, many modernist and post-modern writers intentionally subvert the standard narrative and plot structure that Freytag's pyramid represents. We mention this here because dénouement is often spoken about in relation to other parts of Freytag's pyramid, and because understanding where the dénouement typically occurs within a narrative may help you identify it.

Dénouement Examples

Dénouement in romeo and juliet.

At the end of Romeo and Juliet , after Romeo and Juliet have killed themselves, there comes a brief dénouement in which Montague and the Capulets (Romeo and Juliet's parents) come to see their children's dead bodies. The Friar explains what has happened, and Prince Escalus, in turn, curses the two families, saying that their hate is so terrible that "heaven finds means to kill your joys with love." The prince's remark effectively contextualizes all that has transpired—including the death of the two star-crossed lovers—within a broader, familial narrative, thereby imbuing the story with a sense of cosmic irony . In response to their children's deaths, the two families vow to end their feud and erect a golden statue of the couple. This dénouement, though it follows a tragic ending, gives the play a sense of resolution by (1) tying up the loose ends, (2) explaining the plot succinctly, (3) showing how the events of the story impact the lives of those involved, and (4) giving the audience a sense that there is some justice despite the injustice of the main characters' deaths.

Dénouement in Big Little Lies

The HBO series Big Little Lies focuses on the lives of five women who live in an affluent coastal region of Northern California. Their young children all attend the same school, where the domineering mothers are intensely invested and involved in the social lives of their children—which continuously gives rise to petty, bitter feuds among the women in the community. The show's first season focuses on one particularly messy feud which leads to a death, though it remains unclear who has died and who killed them until the final episode. In the dénouement, the five women—previously bitter enemies—are shown enjoying each other's company on the beach with all their children. They have all agreed to lie on one another's behalf when questioned by detectives, thereby protecting the killer, whose identity they all know. It's a good dénouement because it shows that the characters' lives have returned to "normal," but that they have also changed as a result of the story, and that their lives are better than they were before—since they're able to be friends now.

However, the final shot of the season is filmed from a distance through binocular lenses, implying that the characters are being watched—in other words, that they aren't out of harm's way yet. This makes the dénouement a good example of an ending that suggests "it isn't over yet." But importantly, it's still a resolution to the story, and doesn't necessarily mean that the story will be continued in another season. On the contrary, the show's director and producer has said "There is no way; there’s no reason to make a Season 2. That was meant to be a one-time deal, and it’s finishing in a way where it’s for the audience to imagine what can happen.”

Dénouement in The Lord of the Rings

JRR Tolkien's "Lord of the Rings" trilogy tells the story of Frodo, a hobbit who must journey to a dangerous and faraway land in order to throw a magical ring into a volcano and, in doing so, destroy Sauron, a major force of evil that threatens the entire world, including everyone he loves. People often say that the final book (or film) of the trilogy ends with one climax after another, in a seemingly endless succession. But this is actually a mistake. While it's true that the plot of the film continues for quite some time after the climax (in which the ring and Sauron are destroyed), it is not the case that each new plot development that occurs after the film's climax is a climax in its own right. Rather, the film has a brief falling action sequence, followed by a long dénouement, consisting of many different scenes in which the story's various subplots are each brought to their own conclusions: the heroes are reunited, the rightful King of Middle Earth is crowned, the heroes are thanked for their heroic sacrifice, and the various characters are shown having returned to "business as usual" in their homeland, years after the events of the story. At the very end of the dénouement, there's a passage in which the heroes are ferried to another world, a heaven-like realm that's free of evil and sickness, where they literally do live "happily ever after."

What's the Function of a Dénouement in Literature?

Most pieces of writing that have plots can also be said to have dénouements. Dénouements serve many different purposes in a story. Here are some of the main reasons so many writers build their plots with a dénouement at the end:

To allow time at the end of the story for tying up loose ends and answering questions that arose during the rising action .
To provide the audience with a sense of closure.
To explain the preceding events in a way that shows their larger significance.
To show how the events of the story changed or impacted the lives of the main characters.
To suggest what might be in store for the characters going forward.
To bring the story to an end.

Other Helpful Dénouement Resources

The Wikipedia Entry on Dramatic Structure: This page covers basic plot structure, including a section on dénouement.
The Dictionary Definition of Dénouement: A basic definition, with a bit on the etymology of the word (it means "unknot" in French).
One scene from the Dénouement of Lord of the Rings : This video is mistakenly titled "climax." It's a good example of how dénouements often feel climactic.

The printed PDF version of the LitCharts literary term guide on Dénouement

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Climax (Plot)
Falling Action
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Examples of Resolution and Denouement in Literature (with Definitions)

You will find classic examples of resolution and denouement in popular novels and plays such as Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, Hamlet by William Shakespeare and Death of a Salesman by Arthur Miller.

Resolution and denouement are related concepts in literature, both serving to conclude a story and tie up loose ends. Put differently, these two aspects of plot structure in a narrative refer to the part of the story where the conflicts and tensions are finally resolved.

However, the two terms are not the same and have distinct characteristics. For example, resolution and denouement may occur at slightly different points in the narrative.

Are you looking for the clearest explanation of resolution vs denouement with practical examples? Then you are in the right place. Keep reading as we unravel the confusing characteristics of resolution and denouement that make them at once similar and dissimilar.

Look out for practical examples of resolution and denouement taken from popular novels and plays.

Definition and Characteristics of Resolution

Let’s begin with the definition and major features of resolution in literature.

The resolution is the final part of the story where the main conflicts are resolved, and loose ends are tied up. Take note of the below characteristics of resolution.

It occurs after the climax and falling action.

The resolution often provides closure to the plot.

Again, the resolution typically shows the aftermath of the climax and how the characters’ lives have been affected by the events of the story.

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Definition and Characteristics of Denouement

Find below the definition characteristics of denouement that make it slightly different from resolution.

The denouement specifically refers to the final moments or chapters of the story where any remaining mysteries, questions, or subplots are explained or concluded.

The other characteristics of denouement include the following.

The denouement is a subset of the resolution.

It is the point where the last details are clarified, and the reader gains a fuller understanding of the story.

Differences between Resolution and Denouement

There are several differences between resolution and denouement. Here are the main ones.

The resolution usually occurs after the climax and falling action of a narrative. It is where the main conflicts are resolved and the story reaches its conclusion.

On the other hand, the denouement specifically refers to the final moments or chapters of the story where any remaining mysteries or subplots are explained or concluded . It is at the point where the last details are clarified , providing a final understanding of the story.

The resolution primarily addresses the main conflict and its outcome , revealing the final fate of the characters.

In contrast, the denouement focuses on tying up secondary plotlines, answering lingering questions, and offering closure to minor characters’ arcs.

Similarities between Resolution and Denouement

Let’s now have the major areas of sameness between the resolution and denouement.

Contribution to the Conclusion

Both the resolution and denouement contribute to the conclusion of the narrative, bringing the story to a satisfying end for readers.

Unravelling of Story Threads

Both elements work to unravel the various story threads, providing answers to readers’ questions and resolving narrative tensions.

Examples of Resolution and Denouement in Popular Novels

Next, I want to show you practical examples of resolution and denouement in prose and drama.

The first set of examples comes from some of the best-known novels in the world. Pride and Prejudice, The Great Gatsby, George Orwell’s 1984 and The Lord of the Flies by William Golding are on the list.

“Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen

Resolution: In Pride and Prejudice, the resolution occurs when Elizabeth and Mr Darcy overcome their pride and prejudice, leading to their marriage and the restoration of social harmony.

Denouement: The denouement in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice includes the happy resolution of other relationships. Examples are Jane and Mr Bingley’s reunion and Lydia and Mr Wickham’s marriage, bringing a sense of completeness to the novel’s various subplots.

“To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee

Resolution: The resolution in To Kill a Mockingbird sees the revelation of the true nature of Boo Radley, the resolution of the Tom Robinson trial, and Scout’s newfound understanding of empathy and compassion.

Denouement: The denouement explores the aftermath of the trial, as Atticus attempts to impart lessons of justice and compassion to his children, Jem and Scout.

“The Lord of the Flies” by William Golding

Resolution: The resolution in The Lord of the Flies involves the rescue of the boys and their return to civilization. The incident brings to an end the savagery and chaos on the island.

Denouement: The denouement includes the encounter with the naval officer and Ralph’s realization of the boys’ descent into barbarism and the loss of innocence.

“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Resolution: The resolution in The Great Gatsby involves the tragic deaths of Gatsby and George Wilson and the departure of the Buchanans from New York, leaving behind the consequences of their actions.

Denouement: The denouement is about Nick’s reflections on the events of the summer and his disillusionment with the wealthy elite. This gives further insight into the characters’ fates.

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“1984” by George Orwell

Resolution: An example of resolution in 1984 by George Orwell occurs with Winston’s complete surrender to the Party’s ideology and his eventual acceptance of Big Brother’s authority.

Denouement: The denouement in the novel 1984 reveals Winston’s love for Big Brother. This signifies the destruction of his rebellious spirit and the triumph of the totalitarian regime.

Examples of Resolution and Denouement in Popular Plays

You will now have examples of resolution and denouement from some of the greatest plays ever written.

“Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare

The resolution in Romeo and Juliet features the tragic deaths of Romeo and Juliet. It ends in the feud between their families, the Montagues and Capulets.

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Denouement: The denouement includes the Prince’s speech and the reconciliation between the warring families. This shows the consequences of their feud and the cost of the young lovers’ lives.

“Hamlet” by William Shakespeare

Resolution: The resolution in Hamlet involves the deaths of several main characters, including Hamlet, Claudius, Gertrude, and Laertes, resulting in the kingdom of Denmark passing to Fortinbras.

Denouement: The denouement in Shakespeare’s Hamlet includes Horatio’s final speech and his decision to tell Hamlet’s tragic story. It provides closure to the play’s events and themes.

“Death of a Salesman” by Arthur Miller

Resolution: In Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman, the resolution sees Willy Loman’s suicide and the aftermath of his death, highlighting the tragic consequences of his pursuit of the American Dream.

Denouement: The denouement includes Biff’s realization of the emptiness of his father’s dreams and his decision to break free from the cycle of illusion and lies.

“A Streetcar Named Desire” by Tennessee Williams

Resolution: The resolution in A Streetcar Named Desire involves Blanche’s mental breakdown and her departure to a mental institution, and Stanley’s victory over her.

Denouement: The denouement in Death of a Salesman includes Stella’s decision to stay with Stanley despite the conflict and violence in their relationship, portraying the complexities of human relationships.

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“Macbeth” by William Shakespeare

Resolution: The resolution in Macbeth shows Macduff’s victory over Macbeth and the restoration of the rightful king, Malcolm, to the throne.

Denouement: The denouement in Macbeth involves Malcolm’s speech, promising to restore order and goodness to Scotland, and the final message of the play about the consequences of ambition and treachery.

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Final Thoughts

Remember that in all these examples, the resolution brings the main conflicts to their conclusions, while the denouement provides additional insights and closure to the characters and the story’s broader themes.

In Literature, resolution and denouement are crucial elements of plot structure. And in many ways, they each contribute to our overall understanding and appreciation of characters and themes in the literary work.

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What is Essay? Definition, Usage, and Literary Examples

Essay definition.

An essay (ES-ey) is a nonfiction composition that explores a concept, argument, idea, or opinion from the personal perspective of the writer. Essays are usually a few pages, but they can also be book-length. Unlike other forms of nonfiction writing, like textbooks or biographies, an essay doesn’t inherently require research. Literary essayists are conveying ideas in a more informal way.

The word essay comes from the Late Latin exigere , meaning “ascertain or weigh,” which later became essayer in Old French. The late-15th-century version came to mean “test the quality of.” It’s this latter derivation that French philosopher Michel de Montaigne first used to describe a composition.

History of the Essay

Michel de Montaigne first coined the term essayer to describe Plutarch’s Oeuvres Morales , which is now widely considered to be a collection of essays. Under the new term, Montaigne wrote the first official collection of essays, Essais , in 1580. Montaigne’s goal was to pen his personal ideas in prose . In 1597, a collection of Francis Bacon’s work appeared as the first essay collection written in English. The term essayist was first used by English playwright Ben Jonson in 1609.

Types of Essays

There are many ways to categorize essays. Aldous Huxley, a leading essayist, determined that there are three major groups: personal and autobiographical, objective and factual, and abstract and universal. Within these groups, several other types can exist, including the following:

Academic Essays : Educators frequently assign essays to encourage students to think deeply about a given subject and to assess the student’s knowledge. As such, an academic essay employs a formal language and tone, and it may include references and a bibliography. It’s objective and factual, and it typically uses a five-paragraph model of an introduction, two or more body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Several other essay types, like descriptive, argumentative, and expository, can fall under the umbrella of an academic essay.
Analytical Essays : An analytical essay breaks down and interprets something, like an event, piece of literature, or artwork. This type of essay combines abstraction and personal viewpoints. Professional reviews of movies, TV shows, and albums are likely the most common form of analytical essays that people encounter in everyday life.
Argumentative/Persuasive Essays : In an argumentative or persuasive essay, the essayist offers their opinion on a debatable topic and refutes opposing views. Their goal is to get the reader to agree with them. Argumentative/persuasive essays can be personal, factual, and even both at the same time. They can also be humorous or satirical; Jonathan Swift’s A Modest Proposal is a satirical essay arguing that the best way for Irish people to get out of poverty is to sell their children to rich people as a food source.
Descriptive Essays : In a descriptive essay, the essayist describes something, someone, or an event in great detail. The essay’s subject can be something concrete, meaning it can be experienced with any or all of the five senses, or abstract, meaning it can’t be interacted with in a physical sense.
Expository Essay : An expository essay is a factual piece of writing that explains a particular concept or issue. Investigative journalists often write expository essays in their beat, and things like manuals or how-to guides are also written in an expository style.
Narrative/Personal : In a narrative or personal essay, the essayist tells a story, which is usually a recounting of a personal event. Narrative and personal essays may attempt to support a moral or lesson. People are often most familiar with this category as many writers and celebrities frequently publish essay collections.

Notable Essayists

James Baldwin, “ Notes of a Native Son ”
Joan Didion, “ Goodbye To All That ”
George Orwell, “ Shooting an Elephant ”
Ralph Waldo Emerson, “ Self-Reliance ”
Virginia Woolf, " Three Guineas "

Examples of Literary Essays

1. Michel De Montaigne, “Of Presumption”

De Montaigne’s essay explores multiple topics, including his reasons for writing essays, his dissatisfaction with contemporary education, and his own victories and failings. As the father of the essay, Montaigne details characteristics of what he thinks an essay should be. His writing has a stream-of-consciousness organization that doesn’t follow a structure, and he expresses the importance of looking inward at oneself, pointing to the essay’s personal nature.

2. Virginia Woolf, “A Room of One’s Own”

Woolf’s feminist essay, written from the perspective of an unknown, fictional woman, argues that sexism keeps women from fully realizing their potential. Woolf posits that a woman needs only an income and a room of her own to express her creativity. The fictional persona Woolf uses is meant to teach the reader a greater truth: making both literal and metaphorical space for women in the world is integral to their success and wellbeing.

3. James Baldwin, “Everybody’s Protest Novel”

In this essay, Baldwin argues that Harriet Beecher Stowe’s novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin doesn’t serve the black community the way his contemporaries thought it did. He points out that it equates “goodness” with how well-assimilated the black characters are in white culture:

Uncle Tom’s Cabin is a very bad novel, having, in its self-righteous, virtuous sentimentality, much in common with Little Women. Sentimentality […] is the mark of dishonesty, the inability to feel; […] and it is always, therefore, the signal of secret and violent inhumanity, the mask of cruelty.

This essay is both analytical and argumentative. Baldwin analyzes the novel and argues against those who champion it.

Further Resources on Essays

Top Writing Tips offers an in-depth history of the essay.

The Harvard Writing Center offers tips on outlining an essay.

We at SuperSummary have an excellent essay writing resource guide .

Related Terms

Academic Essay
Argumentative Essay
Expository Essay
Narrative Essay
Persuasive Essay

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8.6: Essay Type- Comparing and Contrasting Literature

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Heather Ringo & Athena Kashyap
City College of San Francisco via ASCCC Open Educational Resources Initiative

Compare and Contrast Essay Basics

The Compare and Contrast Essay is a literary analysis essay, but, instead of examining one work, it examines two or more works. These works must be united by a common theme or thesis statement. For example, while a literary analysis essay might explore the significance of ghosts in William Shakespeare's Hamlet, a compare/contrast essay might explore the significance of the supernatural in Hamlet and Macbeth .

Literary Analysis Thesis Statement:

While Horatio seems to think the ghost of Old Hamlet is a demon trying to lead Hamlet to death, and Gertrude and Claudius think it is a figment of Hamlet's insanity, Hamlet's status as an unreliable narrator and the ghost actually symbolizes the oppression of Catholics during Shakespeare's time period.

Compare and Contrast Thesis Statement:

The unreliable narrators paired with the ghosts in both Hamlet and Macbeth symbolize the oppression of Catholics in Shakespeare's time period.

Essay Genre Expectations

Use first-person pronouns sparingly (you, me, we, our)
Avoid colloquialisms
Spell out contractions
Use subject-specific terminology, such as naming literary devices
Texts: two or more
Avoid summary. Aim for analysis and interpretation
MLA formatting and citations

Organization

While the literary analysis essay follows a fairly simple argumentative essay structure, the compare and contrast essay is slightly more complicated. It might be arranged by:

Literary work (the block method)
Topics/subtopics (the point-by-point method)

In general, ensure each paragraph supports the thesis statement and that both literary works receive equal attention. Include as many body paragraphs as needed to build your argument.

First Option for Organization: The Block Method

In this first option for organization, you will need to discuss both literary works in the introduction and thesis statement, but then the body of the paper will be divided in half. The first half of the body paragraphs should focus on one literary work, while the second half of the body paragraphs should focus on the other literary work.

Background of topic
Background of works related to topic
Thesis Statement
Topic sentence
Introduction of evidence
Evidence from the first literary work
Explanation of evidence
Analysis of evidence
Evidence from the second literary work
Restatement of thesis in new words
Summary of essay arguments

Second Option for Organization: The Point-by-Point Method

With this second option for organization, you may decide to write about both literary works within the same body paragraph every time, or you may choose to consistently alternate back and forth between the literary works in separate body paragraphs.

Evidence from both literary works

Literary Theory and Criticism

Home › Kannur University › Analysis of Terry Eagleton’s What is Literature

Analysis of Terry Eagleton’s What is Literature

By NASRULLAH MAMBROL on February 4, 2024

Terry Eagleton’s exploration of the definition of literature in his introduction to “What is Literature?” presents a multifaceted inquiry into the nature of literary discourse. Eagleton begins by questioning the very existence of literary theory, suggesting that if such a theory exists, then there must also be something identifiable as literature which it seeks to understand. From this starting point, he delves into various attempts to define literature, dissecting common conceptions and proposing alternative perspectives.

One prevalent notion Eagleton critiques is the simplistic classification of literature as imaginative fiction. While fiction certainly falls within the realm of literature, Eagleton argues that this definition fails to encompass the breadth of texts typically considered literary. He illustrates this point by highlighting the inclusion of diverse genres and forms in literary canons, ranging from Shakespearean plays to philosophical treatises and historical accounts.

Eagleton then challenges the distinction between fact and fiction, suggesting that it is often blurred and context-dependent. He discusses how literary language deviates from ordinary speech, employing techniques that intensify and transform language, thereby drawing attention to its materiality. This perspective aligns with the Russian formalists’ view of literature as an “organized violence committed on ordinary speech,” where literary texts systematically depart from everyday language norms.

The essay further examines formalist principles, emphasizing the significance of literary devices and the estrangement effect in literary language. Eagleton elucidates how the Formalists analyzed literary form independently of content, viewing literature as a self-contained system governed by specific laws and structures. This approach challenged traditional interpretations of literature as a reflection of reality or the author’s mind, instead focusing on the linguistic aspects of the text itself.

However, Eagleton acknowledges the limitations of formalist theories, particularly their failure to account for the variability of norms and deviations across different social and historical contexts. He underscores the subjective nature of literary valuation, highlighting how literary status can change over time and vary among individuals and communities. Eagleton ultimately rejects the idea of a stable, objective definition of literature, proposing that it is better understood as a socially constructed category shaped by shifting cultural and aesthetic standards.

Terry Eagleton’s essay explores the dynamic relationship between literature, interpretation, and societal values. He argues that literary works are continually reinterpreted by different historical periods and societies, leading to the construction of distinct versions of canonical texts tailored to their own concerns and ideologies. Terry Eagleton challenges the notion of purely objective interpretation, suggesting that all readings are inherently influenced by subjective values and societal contexts.

He emphasizes the intertwined nature of factual statements and value judgments, asserting that even seemingly objective statements are laden with underlying value-categories. Terry Eagleton critiques the idea of “value-free” knowledge, highlighting the inherent connection between interests, beliefs, and knowledge acquisition.

Furthermore, he delves into the concept of ideology, defining it as the ways in which beliefs and expressions connect with societal power structures. Terry Eagleton illustrates this through an analysis of literary criticism, demonstrating how unconscious biases and social backgrounds shape interpretations of literary works.

Overall, Terry Eagleton’s essay challenges traditional notions of literary interpretation and underscores the profound influence of societal values on our understanding of literature. By critically engaging with various theoretical perspectives and historical contexts, he challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions about what constitutes literature and to recognize the fluidity of literary categorization.

I. What is Climax?

Climax is the highest point of tension or drama in a narratives ’ plot. Often, climax is also when the main problem of the story is faced and solved by the main character or protagonist. The phrase climax is derived from the Greek word klimax meaning “ladder.” Reading a story is like climbing a ladder, with the climax at the top. The basic elements of plot are as follows:

Exposition: Characters and setting are established and the conflict, or problem, is introduced.
Rising action: The conflict begins to affect the characters, complicating their lives.
Climax: The conflict is faced during the main, most dramatic event of the story.
Falling action: The story begins to slow down, showing results of the climax.
Resolution: The story is tied up and concluded.

II. Examples of Climax

For a few examples, consider the short stories below.

A story about a mother and daughter:

Conflict: A character and her mother are upset with each other. The main character believes she must be an artist, whereas her mother does not support her career and would rather have her be an accountant.
Climax: The character and her mother have a large argument in which they both state their feelings. At the end of the argument, they agree to love one another despite their disagreements.

A story about a Boy and His Dog:

Conflict : A boy is playing with his rambunctious dog Sadie when she pulls loose from her collar and runs away. Now, the boy must find Sadie before she runs too far away to be found.
Climax : After looking for Sadie for a while, the boy hears barking from around the house. There, he finds his lost dog and the two happily meet again.

A story about a boy’s crush:

Conflict : Sam has had a crush on Mary for months, but he does not know how to tell her how he feels.
Climax : At the school dance, Sam makes his feelings for Mary known by asking her to dance.

As can be seen from these short story examples, climax is the most exciting point of the plot when the conflict is finally faced.

III. The Importance of Using Climax

Climax is the high point of a story. Without climax, a story lacks excitement or an overarching meaning. Climax is considered an absolutely necessary element of plot. Beyond basic stories, climax is an essential element of many poems, movies, television shows, advertisements, and songs.

IV. Examples of Climax in Literature

Because climax is an essential aspect of plot, the examples of climax in literature are endless! Here are a few examples:

Robert Frost’s poem “The Road Not Taken”:

Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could To where it bent in the undergrowth;

In the first stanza shown above, Frost’s narrator faces a conflict: should he take one road, or the other? By the last stanza, he has made his decision. At the climax of the poem, he reveals he has taken the road “less traveled by”:

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I— I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference.

The climax of the poem is when the narrator makes a decision to bravely take the road that is less popular but ultimately more promising, for it “has made all the difference.”

In the novel Life of Pi , Yann Martel tells the story of a boy who named Pi loses his entire family in a shipwreck and must survive on a lifeboat with wild animals, including a Bengal tiger. Pi struggles, but in the process, realizes the power of the will to live:

I grew weary of my situation, as pointless as the weather. But life would not leave me.

The climax of the story comes when his boat at last lands in Mexico and he is rescued:

I struggled to shore and fell upon the sand. I looked about. … This beach, so soft, firm and vast, was like the cheek of God, and somewhere two eyes were glittering with pleasure and a mouth was smiling at having me there.

Pi’s physical struggle has ended, and he has gained personal and spiritual strength, having survived the ordeal.

V. Examples of Climax in Pop Culture

Like books, movies and TV shows also must have climactic scenes. Here are a few examples:

One famous scene is in The King’s Speech. After struggling with a stutter for much of his life and working with a teacher to get rid of it at last, King George VI must address millions of citizens in a radio address. During the address, George faces his stutter and overcomes it, speaking with confidence and without aid by the end of the speech. Climactic scenes are often accompanied with dramatic music which marks that the climax is occurring. In this scene, the music becomes more dramatic, strong, and loud just as the king becomes more confident.

The ending of The Shawshank Redemption was another climactic movie scene. Red and Andy have struggled through prison life but have finally both been freed after Andy’s escape and Red’s release. Red finds a letter left for him by his friend Andy, who has escaped, and the two meet again in Mexico. Once again, music plays alongside the climactic moment. The problem was a lack of freedom and a sense of helplessness in jail, and at last, both men are free and full of hope.

VI. Related Terms

The climax is marked by the protagonist facing the conflict and prevailing. Oftentimes, this makes for a dramatic and compelling scene. The anticlimax, on the other hand, allows the protagonist to overcome the conflict, but through seemingly trivial means. Whereas climax often requires change, effort, and drama, the anticlimax lacks all three and anticlimactically ends the story.

Here’s the first example:

Conflict : The protagonist must deactivate a bomb in order to save an entire city.
Climax : The protagonist successfully deactivates the bomb last-minute with intelligence, critical thinking, and bravery.
Anticlimax : The protagonist fails to deactivate the bomb, but luckily, it was a poorly made bomb and fails to go off.

Here’s a second example

Conflict : The good guys are about to face the bad guys in a huge battle.
Climax : After an hours-long face-off, the good guys win the battle and the bad guys back off.
Anticlimax: The bad guys cancel the battle, as their leader has a bad case of the flu.

As is shown in these examples, both climax and anticlimax rid the protagonist of the problem. Climax, though, is more exciting and challenging, whereas anticlimax is trivial and often disappointing.

VII. Conclusion

It may be argued that any composition must have a climax in order to be interesting or compelling. A story without a climax lacks emotion and change, which are the very things we yearn for in art. Climax is an essential element of plot in stories, poems, plays, and numerous other forms.

List of Terms

Alliteration
Amplification
Anachronism
Anthropomorphism
Antonomasia
APA Citation
Aposiopesis
Autobiography
Bildungsroman
Characterization
Circumlocution
Cliffhanger
Comic Relief
Connotation
Deus ex machina
Deuteragonist
Doppelganger
Double Entendre
Dramatic irony
Equivocation
Extended Metaphor
Figures of Speech
Flash-forward
Foreshadowing
Intertextuality
Juxtaposition
Literary Device
Malapropism
Onomatopoeia
Parallelism
Pathetic Fallacy
Personification
Point of View
Polysyndeton
Protagonist
Red Herring
Rhetorical Device
Rhetorical Question
Science Fiction
Self-Fulfilling Prophecy
Synesthesia
Turning Point
Understatement
Urban Legend
Verisimilitude
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Resolution: Definition and Examples
The resolution, also known as the denouement, is the conclusion of the story's plot. It's where any unanswered questions are answered, or "loose ends are tied.". Interestingly the phrase denouement comes from the French word dénouement meaning "to untie.". A story with a complete ending is said to have a strong resolution.
Resolution
Definition of Resolution. The literary device resolution means the unfolding or solution of a complicated issue in a story. Technically, resolution is also known as a " denouement .". Most of the instances of resolution are presented in the final parts or chapters of a story. It mostly follows the climax. In certain mystery novels, climax ...
What is Resolution in Literature? Definition, Examples of Literary
Resolution is the conclusion of a story's plot and is a part of a complete conclusion to a story. The resolution occurs at the end of a story following the climax and falling action. In some stories, climax and resolution occur simultaneously but in that case are simply co-occurring points in the plot.
What Is the Resolution of a Story?
Updated on August 18, 2018. In a work of literature, the resolution is the part of the story's plot where the main problem is resolved or worked out. The resolution occurs after the falling action and is typically where the story ends. Another term for the resolution is "dénouement," which comes from the French term dénoué, meaning "to untie."
Resolution definition and example literary device
Definition of Resolution. The literary device resolution means the unfolding or solution of a complicated issue in a story. Technically, resolution is also known as a " denouement .". Most of the instances of resolution are presented in the final parts or chapters of a story. It mostly follows the climax. In certain mystery novels, climax ...
Resolution of a Story: How to Write the Resolution of a Story
Written by MasterClass. Last updated: Aug 12, 2021 • 3 min read. The resolution of a story ties the narrative arc together. Learn more about the key elements of a story's resolution, examples of resolutions, and how to write your own ending.
Resolution: A Literary Device
Resolution: Definition as a Literary Device. In literature, resolution serves as the denouement or final stage in a narrative, representing the culmination of the story's central conflict. It is the point at which loose ends are tied, questions are answered, and a sense of closure is provided to the reader.
Resolution
Definition of Resolution. The literary device decision way the unfolding or solution of a complex issue in a tale. Technically, resolution is also referred to as a "denouement.". Most of the instances of resolution are presented inside the very last elements or chapters of a story. It by and large follows the climax.
Resolution
Definition. The resolution is the part of a story where the conflicts are resolved and loose ends are tied up. It provides closure to the narrative and often reveals the final outcome for the characters. ... AP English Literature - 9.1 Looking at a character's response to the resolution of a narrative.
What is the Resolution of a Story? Definition ...
The movie's resolution occurs when the burglars get arrested and Kevin's family finally makes their way back to their son. Examples of Resolution in Literature. In the drama Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare, the resolution occurs in the final act. In this drama the resolution is the catastrophic suicides of the young lovers Romeo and ...
Resolution in Literature Overview & Example
The definition of resolution in literature is the conclusion of the story by the resolving of conflicts between characters. The resolution is the final literary stage in a story's plot structure .
What Is a Resolution? Definition & 25+ Examples
In literature, resolution is the final stage in a story's plot, where conflicts are resolved and loose ends are tied up. It is also commonly known as dénouement, a French term meaning "untying.". This section will discuss the essential elements of resolution in literature.
How to Write a Resolution for a Narrative Essay
This process of building tension makes for a more compelling resolution, because your resolution resolves this tension by, for example, showing how you beat the odds or arguing about the importance of the story you've shared. The Resolution. Your resolution is the final paragraph of your essay or, if your essay is very long, the final few ...
What is Resolution in Fiction
Use the resolution to give both characters and readers a place to breathe, to relax, to adjust to what has happened. Characters will need a break from the emotional ups and downs of the climax. Readers will need a moment of reflection and adjustment before stepping back into their own lives. Emotions.
Dénouement
Here's a quick and simple definition: The dénouement is the final section of a story's plot, in which loose ends are tied up, lingering questions are answered, and a sense of resolution is achieved. The shortest and most well known dénouement, it could be said, is "And they lived happily ever after." Most stories, however, require a longer ...
How to Write a Literary Analysis Essay
Table of contents. Step 1: Reading the text and identifying literary devices. Step 2: Coming up with a thesis. Step 3: Writing a title and introduction. Step 4: Writing the body of the essay. Step 5: Writing a conclusion. Other interesting articles.
Examples of Resolution and Denouement in Literature (with Definitions
5 Examples of Resolution and Denouement in Popular Novels. 5.1 "Pride and Prejudice" by Jane Austen. 5.2 "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee. 5.3 "The Lord of the Flies" by William Golding. 5.4 "The Great Gatsby" by F. Scott Fitzgerald. 5.5 "1984" by George Orwell. 6 Examples of Resolution and Denouement in Popular Plays.
Essay in Literature: Definition & Examples
An essay (ES-ey) is a nonfiction composition that explores a concept, argument, idea, or opinion from the personal perspective of the writer. Essays are usually a few pages, but they can also be book-length. Unlike other forms of nonfiction writing, like textbooks or biographies, an essay doesn't inherently require research. Literary essayists are conveying ideas in a more informal way.
8.6: Essay Type- Comparing and Contrasting Literature
Compare and Contrast Essay Basics. The Compare and Contrast Essay is a literary analysis essay, but, instead of examining one work, it examines two or more works. These works must be united by a common theme or thesis statement. For example, while a literary analysis essay might explore the significance of ghosts in William Shakespeare's Hamlet ...
Analysis of Terry Eagleton's What is Literature
The essay further examines formalist principles, emphasizing the significance of literary devices and the estrangement effect in literary language. Eagleton elucidates how the Formalists analyzed literary form independently of content, viewing literature as a self-contained system governed by specific laws and structures.
Climax: Definition and Examples
Climax is the highest point of tension or drama in a narratives ' plot. Often, climax is also when the main problem of the story is faced and solved by the main character or protagonist. The phrase climax is derived from the Greek word klimax meaning "ladder.". Reading a story is like climbing a ladder, with the climax at the top.

Definition of Resolution

Examples of Resolution in Literature

Example #2: The Great Gatsby (by F. Scott Fitzgerald)

Example #3: The Catcher in the Rye (by J.D. Salinger)

Example #4: The Winter’s Tale (by William Shakespeare)

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What is Resolution in Literature? Definition, Examples of Literary Resolution

What is a Resolution?

Modern Examples of Resolution

The Purpose of Resolution

How Resolution is Used in Literature

Recap: What is Resolution in Literature?

What Is Resolution in Literature?

Freytag's Pyramid

Rising and Falling Action

Examples of Resolutions

'Peter Pan'

George Orwell's '1984'

A Different Man Entirely

Definition of Resolution

Examples of Resolution in Literature

Example #2: The Great Gatsby (by F. Scott Fitzgerald)

Example #3: The Catcher in the Rye (by J.D. Salinger)

Example #4: The Winter’s Tale (by William Shakespeare)

Resolution: A Literary Device

Resolution: Etymology, Literal and Conceptual Meanings

Literal and Conceptual Meanings:

Resolution: Types

Resolution in Literature: Suggested Readings

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What is the Resolution of a Story? Definition, Examples Resolutions in Literature

What is a Resolution in Literature?

Example of Resolution

The Function of Resolution

Modern Examples of Resolution

Examples of Resolution in Literature

Summary: What is Resolution?

What Is a Resolution? Definition & 25+ Examples

Defining Resolution

Importance of Resolution

Resolution Serves the Purpose of Resolving Conflicts

Resolution Highlights the Lessons Learned by The Characters

Resolutions Can Enhance the Story’s Structure and Pacing

Functions of Resolution

Resolution Reveals the Final Consequences of The Character’s Choices and Actions

Resolutions Can Highlight the Theme of The Story

Resolutions May Leave the Audience with An Open-Ended or Ambiguous Ending

Elements of Resolution

Climax of The Story

Change in The Characters

Tying up Of Subplots

Explanation of Mysterious Occurrences

Types of Resolution

Tragic Resolution

Bittersweet Resolution

Unresolved Ending

Twist Ending

Moral Resolution

Ambiguous Resolution

Deus Ex Machina

Circular or Cyclical Resolution

Multiple Resolutions

Examples of Resolution in Literature

Conflict and Climax

Theme and Central Message

Impact of Resolution on Literature

Resolutions Can Contribute to A Sense of Emotional Catharsis for Readers

Resolutions Can Serve to Drive Home Messages that The Author Wishes to Convey

Challenges of Crafting a Compelling Resolution

Addressing Complex Issues

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the resolution involve a twist?

Does a resolution have to resolve every conflict introduced in the story?

Does a resolution always have to be realistic?