Definition of «redemption arc»

A redemption arc is a narrative device in which a character who has committed wrongful acts or displayed negative qualities undergoes personal growth and transformation, ultimately seeking forgiveness, redeeming themselves, and becoming a better person. This type of storyline often involves the character overcoming obstacles and facing consequences for their past actions as they work towards change and self-improvement.

Usage examples

In Game of Thrones, Jaime Lannister's redemption arc sees him transform from a morally questionable character to someone striving for honor and redemption.
The Star Wars saga features the redemption arc of Anakin Skywalker, who starts as Darth Vader but ultimately finds redemption by saving his son and returning to the light side of the Force.
In the movie The Shawshank Redemption, the protagonist Andy Dufresne experiences a redemption arc as he goes from being wrongly convicted and imprisoned to orchestrating an escape plan and finding freedom.
The Harry Potter series portrays the redemption arc of Severus Snape, initially seen as a cold and treacherous character but later revealed to have acted out of love and loyalty, becoming one of the heroes.
In the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the character Loki goes through a redemption arc, evolving from a mischievous villain to a more complex antihero who demonstrates growth and compassion.

Sentences with «redemption arc»

Those moments, though, have little to nothing to do with the plot, which gives us a tougher villain and two, interconnected redemption arcs for Deadpool. (markreviewsmovies.com)
Though the cast is brilliant all around, the versatile Sam Rockwell still manages to stand out, even if Dixon's hasty redemption arc feels unearned. (slate.com)
Some might find the main character abrasive beyond redemption but the movie sells that redemption arc adequately. (metacritic.com)
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