anacrisis

ænəˈkrɪsɪs

Definitions

1. noun

A sudden and violent change in the plot or action of a literary work, especially a tragedy, often used to heighten the emotional impact.

“The playwright used an anacrisis to turn the audience’s sympathies against the protagonist, adding a new level of drama to the play.”

Synonyms

  • peripeteia
  • turning point

Antonyms

  • denouement
  • resolution