An epiphany is a moment of sudden and profound realization or insight. In literature, an epiphany is often used to represent a character's moment of enlightenment or understanding, and it can be a powerful way to convey the character's growth or transformation.
An epiphany can be the result of a character's internal struggles or external experiences, and it often occurs when the character is faced with a crisis or challenge. The epiphany helps the character to gain a new perspective or understanding of their situation, and it can lead to a significant change in their behavior or beliefs.
Some examples of epiphanies in literature include:
- In James Joyce's "The Dubliners," the character Gabriel Conroy has an epiphany at the end of "The Dead" when he realizes the depth of his love for his wife and the impermanence of life.
- In F. Scott Fitzgerald's "The Great Gatsby," the character Jay Gatsby has an epiphany when he realizes the futility of his pursuit of the unattainable Daisy Buchanan.
- In J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye," the character Holden Caulfield has an epiphany when he realizes the importance of human connection and the need to be present in the moment.
