What best describes the emotional experience provided by catharsis?

Catharsis is a term derived from Greek meaning "cleansing" or "purification," and it refers to the emotional release that individuals experience during or after a dramatic experience, whether through theater, literature, or other forms of art. The correct answer highlights that catharsis involves a sense of closure and release.

When individuals engage with a cathartic work, they often feel a strong emotional response—whether it’s through laughter, tears, or a deep connection with the narrative. This intense emotional experience helps them confront their own feelings and, ultimately, leads to a resolution of inner turmoil. The release of pent-up emotions results in a feeling of relief, allowing individuals to process complex feelings and move forward with a clearer mind.

Other options describe emotional states that do not align with the core concept of catharsis. Excitement and joy, ambivalence and confusion, as well as frustration and stress, may arise in various contexts but do not encapsulate the specific sense of resolution that catharsis provides. The transformative and relieving aspect of catharsis is what makes the experience powerful and significant in the realm of theater and storytelling.