Anagnorisis is a literary term that refers to a moment of critical discovery or recognition in a story. It often occurs when a character realizes their true identity, the nature of their situation, or the truth about another character. This revelation can lead to significant changes in the character's actions or understanding of the plot. In classical literature, anagnorisis is commonly found in tragedies, such as in the works of Sophocles or Shakespeare. It serves to heighten emotional impact and deepen the audience's engagement with the narrative, as characters confront their past mistakes or misunderstandings.