Anagnorisis/a-ˌnag-ˈnor-ə-səs/

Anagnorisis

• Definition: The recognition or discovery by the protagonist of the identity of some character or the nature of his own predicament, which leads to the resolution of the plot.

Anagnorisis Example: Arthur, thinking he’s just a lowly squire, has no idea he’s the rightful heir to the throne until he pulls the

sword from the stone.

Other Examples of Anagnorisis

• The Empire Strikes Back– The revelation that Darth Vader is the father of

Luke Skywalker• The Last Book of the Harry Potter Series– After viewing the memories of Professor Snape

Harry realizes he is a hoar crux and needs to die in order to kill Voldemart

Anagnorisis Homework

• Find one example of anagnorisis in literature