WHAT IS MEANT BY CATHARSIS?

In storytelling, catharsis refers to the emotional release or purification that the audience experiences as a result of witnessing a character’s intense emotional journey. It is the feeling of emotional release or relief that comes after experiencing an intense emotional journey with a character or characters in a story.

Catharsis is a term that was first used by the ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle, who believed that the purpose of tragedy was to evoke emotions of pity and fear in the audience, followed by a cathartic release that left them feeling purged and uplifted. He believed that by experiencing these emotions through a character, the audience would be better able to process and understand their own emotions.

In modern storytelling, catharsis is still a key component in creating an emotional connection between the audience and the characters. Through witnessing the struggles and triumphs of a character, the audience is able to experience a range of emotions that help them relate to and empathize with the character.

Catharsis can also be used to create a sense of closure or resolution at the end of a story, as the audience experiences a release of built-up tension and emotions. When done effectively, catharsis can leave a lasting impact on the audience and make the story more memorable and impactful.

Here are some examples of cathartic moments in films:

1. “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994) – The climactic escape scene, where Andy Dufresne emerges from the sewer pipe, symbolizing freedom and liberation after years of imprisonment.
2. “Rocky” (1976) – The final boxing match between Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed, where Rocky goes the distance, proving his resilience and determination.
3. “Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind” (2004) – The poignant final scene where Joel and Clementine decide to give their relationship another chance despite the challenges they have faced.
4. “The Lion King” (1994) – The triumphant moment when Simba reclaims his place as king and defeats Scar, fulfilling his destiny and avenging his father’s death.
5. “Inside Out” (2015) – The emotional climax when Riley acknowledges her sadness and allows herself to grieve, leading to a deeper understanding of her emotions and growth.
6. “La La Land” (2016) – The dreamlike dance sequence at the end, where the two main characters, Mia and Sebastian, share a bittersweet moment of connection and acceptance of their separate paths.
7. “The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King” (2003) – The coronation of Aragorn, symbolizing the restoration of peace and the defeat of evil in Middle-earth.
8. “Schindler’s List” (1993) – The powerful moment when Oskar Schindler breaks down, realizing he could have saved more lives, highlighting the complexity of human morality and the weight of his actions.

In Christopher Nolan’s “Inception” the intended catharsis the central characters are attempting to manufacture in Fischer is actually the MacGuffin. This catharsis, they hope, will inspire a ‘road to Damascus moment‘ that will be to the benefit of Fischer’s business rival, their employer, Saito.

These examples represent moments in films that evoke strong emotional responses, allowing the audience to experience a sense of release, satisfaction, or deep connection with the characters and themes presented.