Resolution: Etymology, Literal and Conceptual Meanings
Etymology of “Resolution”: The term “resolution” originates from the Latin word “resolutio,” derived from the verb “resolvere,” meaning “to loosen” or “to release.” In Middle English, the word took on the sense of “breaking into parts” or “analyzing,” eventually evolving to encompass the notion of determination and decision-making. The etymology suggests a process of untangling or clarifying, highlighting the dual aspects of breaking down complexity and arriving at a firm decision or commitment.
Literal and Conceptual Meanings:
| Literal Meaning | Conceptual Meaning |
| The act of resolving or deciding | Determination to achieve a specific goal or outcome |
| A formal expression of intent | Mental clarity and focus |
| The clarity of an image or detail | The process of finding a solution or answering a question |
| The degree of detail in an image | Commitment to change or improvement |
| The process of reducing complexity | The ending or conclusion of a narrative or conflict |
| The separation of components | The mental and emotional strength to overcome challenges or obstacles |
Resolution: Definition as a Literary Device
In literature, resolution serves as the denouement or final stage in a narrative, representing the culmination of the story’s central conflict. It is the point at which loose ends are tied, questions are answered, and a sense of closure is provided to the reader. The resolution often brings clarity, resolving uncertainties, and offering insights into the characters’ fates or the broader thematic elements of the work.
Resolution: Types
| Type of Resolution | Description | Example |
| Falling Action Resolution | Description: The resolution occurs as part of the falling action, immediately following the climax, providing closure to the central conflict. | Example: In Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet,” the resolution unfolds after the tragic deaths of the titular characters. |
| Catastrophe or Tragic Resolution | Description: The resolution involves a catastrophic or tragic outcome, often leading to the downfall of the protagonist or significant characters. | Example: Sophocles’ “Oedipus Rex” concludes with the tragic resolution of Oedipus’s self-discovery and his eventual blindness. |
| Character Transformation Resolution | Description: The resolution focuses on the transformation or growth of a character, showcasing their development over the course of the narrative. | Example: In Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” Scrooge undergoes a profound character transformation, embracing generosity and compassion. |
| Epiphany or Revelation Resolutions | Description: These resolutions involve a sudden realization or revelation by a character, leading to a deeper understanding of themselves or the situation. | Example: In James Joyce’s “Dubliners,” the protagonist in “The Dead” experiences a powerful epiphany about life and death during a festive gathering. |
| Ambiguous Resolutions | Description: These resolutions leave certain elements of the plot or character outcomes intentionally unclear, allowing for interpretation and speculation. | Example: The conclusion of Christopher Nolan’s film “Inception” leaves the fate of the protagonist’s reality open to viewer interpretation. |
| Redemptive Resolutions | Description: The resolutions involve the redemption or positive transformation of a character who has faced challenges or moral dilemmas throughout the narrative. | Example: In Victor Hugo’s “Les Misérables,” Jean Valjean experiences a redemptive resolution, finding peace and redemption in his final momen |
Resolution: Examples in Everyday Life
- Conflict Resolutions at Work:
- Description: Resolving disagreements or conflicts in a professional setting to foster a positive work environment.
- Example: A team meeting is held to address differing opinions on a project, and a compromise is reached through open communication and negotiation.
- New Year’s Resolutions:
- Description: Setting personal goals or intentions for self-improvement at the beginning of a new year.
- Example: Deciding to exercise regularly, eat healthier, or learn a new skill in the coming year as part of a New Year’s resolution.
- Family Dispute Resolutions:
- Description: Settling disputes or disagreements within a family to maintain harmony and understanding.
- Example: Siblings resolving a disagreement by discussing their concerns and finding a compromise that satisfies all parties involved.
- Legal Dispute Resolutions:
- Description: Settling legal conflicts or disputes outside of a courtroom through negotiation or alternative dispute resolution methods.
- Example: Parties involved in a contract dispute opting for mediation to reach a mutually acceptable resolution without going to court.
- Financial Resolutions:
- Description: Making decisions or plans to improve one’s financial situation or achieve specific financial goals.
- Example: Creating a budget, reducing unnecessary expenses, and saving money to achieve financial stability and security.
- Health and Wellness Resolutions:
- Description: Committing to lifestyle changes for improved health and well-being.
- Example: Resolving to quit smoking, adopt a regular exercise routine, or make dietary changes to enhance overall health.
- Conflict Resolutions in Friendships:
- Description: Addressing misunderstandings or conflicts with friends to maintain healthy and supportive relationships.
- Example: Friends discussing and resolving a disagreement to preserve their friendship and mutual understanding.
- Resolutions of Procrastination:
- Description: Taking steps to overcome procrastination and accomplish tasks in a timely manner.
- Example: Creating a daily schedule, breaking down tasks into smaller steps, and setting deadlines to address and overcome procrastination habits.
These examples illustrate how resolutions are a common aspect of daily life, encompassing a range of scenarios from personal growth and health to interpersonal relationships and professional settings.
Resolution in Literature: Suggested Readings
- Austen, Jane. Pride and Prejudice. Penguin, 2003.
- Shakespeare, William. Romeo and Juliet. Edited by Brian Gibbons, Oxford UP, 2000.
- Dickens, Charles. A Tale of Two Cities. Oxford UP, 2008.
- Hugo, Victor. Les Misérables. Signet Classics, 2013.
- Wilde, Oscar. The Importance of Being Earnest. Dover Publications, 1990.
- Joyce, James. Dubliners. Dover Publications, 1991.
- Sophocles. Oedipus Rex. Translated by David Mulroy, Wisconsin UP, 2011.
- Vonnegut, Kurt. Breakfast of Champions. Dial Press Trade Paperback, 1999.
- King, Stephen. On Writing: A Memoir of the Craft. Scribner, 2000.
- Laurie, Hugh. The Gun Seller. Vintage, 1998.