Denouement

Definition

Denouement refers to the final part of a narrative where the complexities of the plot are resolved, providing clarity and closure to the story. This term is especially significant in drama, where it allows the audience to reflect on the events that have unfolded and understand the characters' fates. In social problem plays, like those by George Bernard Shaw, the denouement often highlights the moral or social message, prompting the audience to consider broader societal implications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Shaw's social problem plays, the denouement often challenges societal norms and invites the audience to reflect on moral issues.
2. The denouement provides an opportunity for characters to reveal their true selves, often after facing internal or external conflicts throughout the play.
3. In works like 'Mrs. Warren's Profession,' Shaw uses the denouement to expose hypocrisy and encourage discussions on controversial social issues.
4. Denouements can serve as a call to action for the audience, urging them to consider their role in societal change after witnessing the characters' journeys.
5. Unlike traditional resolutions that may tie everything up neatly, Shaw's denouements often leave lingering questions about justice and morality.

Review Questions

• How does denouement function in George Bernard Shaw's social problem plays?
  • In Shaw's social problem plays, the denouement serves as a critical moment where unresolved tensions culminate, revealing deeper moral and social questions. It allows audiences to grapple with the implications of the characters' actions and choices throughout the play. Rather than simply providing closure, these denouements provoke thought and discussion on societal issues, reflecting Shaw's intent to challenge viewers' perceptions.
• Compare and contrast how denouement is handled in a traditional play versus in a social problem play by Shaw.
  • In traditional plays, denouements often aim for clear resolutions where conflicts are neatly wrapped up, leading to a sense of closure. In contrast, Shaw’s social problem plays utilize denouement to highlight unresolved societal issues and provoke audience contemplation. Instead of a tidy conclusion, Shaw’s endings tend to leave viewers questioning their own values and roles within society, emphasizing ongoing struggles rather than complete resolution.
• Evaluate how Shaw’s use of denouement contributes to the effectiveness of his critique of society.
  • Shaw’s strategic use of denouement amplifies his critique of society by deliberately avoiding simple resolutions. By crafting endings that challenge audiences to think critically about complex moral dilemmas, he fosters an environment for discussion and introspection. This method not only enhances dramatic tension but also compels viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about social injustices, making his plays both impactful and relevant.

Related terms

Climax: The climax is the point of highest tension in a story, where the main conflict reaches its peak and leads towards resolution.

Exposition: Exposition is the part of a narrative that introduces background information about characters, setting, and conflicts.

Resolution: Resolution refers to the part of a story where the conflict is resolved, and the story concludes, often overlapping with the denouement.