Anagnorises

/ænæɡˈnɔːrɪsiːz/ noun

Definition

Plural of anagnorisis; moments of sudden recognition or discovery in a story, especially when a character reveals their true identity or realizes something crucial.

Etymology

From Greek 'anagnorisis' (recognition, discovery), originally an Aristotelian term for a crucial plot device in Greek drama where hidden identities are revealed.

Kelly Says

In 'Oedipus Rex,' the anagnorisis is when Oedipus realizes he's killed his father and married his mother—Aristotle considered this the most powerful moment in drama because it combines revelation with the character's downfall.

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