In drama, catharsis is the

Step 1: Analyze the question The question asks for the meaning of catharsis as a term in drama.

Step 2: Explain the concept Catharsis comes from the Greek word katharsis, meaning "purification" or "cleansing." The philosopher Aristotle used it in his Poetics to describe the effect of tragedy on the audience. As the audience watches the hero suffer, they feel pity and fear. By the end of the play, those emotions are released, leaving the audience feeling relieved and emotionally cleansed.

Step 3: Evaluate the options

• A. Change of setting: This is a change in the place or time of the action. It has nothing to do with catharsis.
• B. Conflict between two characters: This describes the conflict, or the rising action of the plot. It is not catharsis.
• C. Resolution of conflict: This is the denouement or resolution. It is close to the point where catharsis happens, but it describes the plot, not the emotional effect on the audience.
• D. Purgation of emotion from tension: Purgation means cleansing or release. This matches Aristotle's idea of catharsis, the release of built-up emotions such as pity and fear.

Step 4: Answer The correct option is D.

Tip: Think of "catharsis" as a cleansing of emotions. A similar word is "cathartic," which describes a medicine that purges the body. In the same way, catharsis purges the emotions. Also remember that denouement is for plot resolution, while catharsis is for emotional release.