Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

anagnorisis

Noun

ˌæn.əɡˈnɔːr.ɪ.sɪs

Definition

Anagnorisis is the moment in a story when a character makes a critical discovery about themselves or others.

Examples

In ‘Oedipus Rex’, the anagnorisis occurs when Oedipus realizes that he has unwittingly killed his father and married his mother.
The protagonist’s anagnorisis in the final act of the play added a profound depth to the story, making the audience reflect on their own choices.

Meaning

It often involves a revelation that leads to a change in the character’s understanding or perspective, frequently resulting in a turning point in the narrative.