What does the term denouement refer to?

The term denouement refers to the final resolution that occurs after the complex events of a story have unfolded. In literary terms, the denouement follows the climax and is where the plot reaches its conclusion, providing clarity and closure to the narrative. It often reveals the ultimate outcomes for the characters and ties up any loose ends created throughout the story. This phase can help the audience understand the implications of the plot's events and see how conflicts have been resolved, making it a crucial part of the structure of storytelling.

The other options focus on different narrative elements—such as the initial situation, detailed character descriptions, and the climax—none of which capture the essence of the denouement, which specifically involves the resolution and aftermath of the story's conflicts.