Dramatic structure#D.C3.A9nouement.2C resolution.2C or catastrophe

The term denouement (French, actually " resolution ( of a node ), settlement " to nœud " nodes") in Theatre Studies describes the solution of the basic conflict in a drama. Analogously, the term is applied to other literary genres, especially on the novel.

After Gustav Freytag's dramatic theory brings about the catastrophe of the tragedy that happens in the fifth act, the resolution - after exposure, involvement, denouement and retarding element. The denouement leads to catharsis, which is usually associated with the death of the hero. So in the comedy, it leads to a happy end, traditionally one or more marriages or for recognition of two or more persons. What the denouement in the tragedy, the world is reconciliation in the comedy.