Peripeteia

Peripeteia is a sudden and unexpected change in a story’s direction, often leading to the protagonist’s downfall. It’s a pivotal moment where events shift dramatically, revealing something crucial or altering the outcome. Think of it like a surprise twist that flips the story’s course, usually revealing new truths or jeopardizing the character’s goals. In literature and drama, peripeteia heightens emotional impact and engages the audience by challenging their expectations, emphasizing the unpredictability of fate and human vulnerability.