Which term refers to the final outcome of a story?

The term that refers to the final outcome of a story is resolution. In literary terms, the resolution, also known as the denouement, is where the conflicts are resolved, and the story concludes. It ties up loose ends and reveals the consequences of the characters' actions throughout the narrative. This final part of the story provides closure to the audience, allowing them to understand how the narrative arc has reached its conclusion.

In contrast, the climax refers to the most intense moment in the story where the main conflict reaches its peak. The setting describes the time and place in which the story occurs, providing context for the characters' experiences. The theme reflects the underlying message or central idea of the work, exploring broader concepts that the narrative conveys. Each of these terms serves a different function in storytelling, but the resolution specifically addresses the outcome that follows the climax and brings the story to a close.