What does the term "denouement" refer to in literature?

The term "denouement" refers specifically to the final part of a story in which the plot strands are drawn together, and the conflicts and issues that have been created throughout the narrative are resolved. This stage typically follows the climax, where the main tensions reach their peak, and allows the audience to see the outcome of these conflicts. The denouement provides closure and often reveals the fates of the characters, tying up any loose ends and allowing the reader to understand the implications of the events that have transpired. This is an essential element in storytelling, as it ensures that the narrative feels complete and satisfying to the audience. Understanding the denouement helps readers appreciate how a story concludes and the overall structure of narrative arcs in literature.