What literary element provides a sense of closure and relief in a narrative?

The most fitting term that provides a sense of closure and relief in a narrative is "resolution." This element refers specifically to the part of a story where the conflicts and complexities of the plot are resolved, leading to a satisfying conclusion. While catharsis involves the emotional release that an audience feels, especially in response to dramatic situations, it does not strictly refer to the narrative closure itself.

The climax is the peak of emotional intensity and conflict in the narrative, serving as a turning point but not providing closure. Denouement, often considered a synonym for resolution, describes the final part of a story where everything is tied up, but it specifically follows the climax and leads towards resolution. The resolution serves to satisfy the reader's or audience's desire for understanding and closure, highlighting how conflicts and tensions have been addressed by the story's conclusion.