What is described as the "turning downward" of a plot in a tragedy, typically occurring after the climax?

The "turning downward" of a plot in a tragedy after the climax is referred to as the catastrophe. This term describes the critical moment in a tragedy where the protagonist faces significant loss or downfall, often resulting from their own flaws or mistakes. The catastrophe serves to heighten the emotional impact of the story and leads to the eventual resolution, where the consequences of the preceding events become apparent.

In contrast, the climax is the point of highest tension in the narrative, representing a crucial moment of decision or conflict that leads directly to the catastrophe. The denouement, on the other hand, occurs after the catastrophe and involves the unraveling of the plot and resolution of conflicts. Exposition refers to the introduction and setup of the story, where background information and character motivations are established, which occurs at the beginning rather than leading into the tragedy's downward turn.