redemption arc

Noun

redemption arc (plural redemption arcs)

1. A story arc wherein an immoral character redeems themselves and makes right for their wrongdoings (or wherein readers perceive them as having done so).

   Synonyms:

   redemptive arc

2. (broadly) A series of actions or events by which a person makes right for their past failures, errors, or wrongdoings.
   • But Mr. Depp’s victory — which a lawyer for Ms. Heard said she would appeal — may seem attractive to accused litigants who are desperately seeking a similar redemption arc, said Andrew Miltenberg, a lawyer whose firm regularly defends people accused of sexual misconduct.2022 June 2, Julia Jacobs, “Johnny Depp’s Win in Court Could Embolden Others, Lawyers Say”, in The New York Times
   • Nobody really knows how Karius will fare on Sunday. He has not played a senior professional game for two years. Nobody knows where his head is at, what battle scars still remain, how he will fare in the cauldron of a cup final with Marcus Rashford bearing down on his goal. The redemption arc is a...2023 February 24, Jonathan Liew, “Loris Karius knows only too well how one game can change a career”, in The Guardian

   Synonyms:

   redemptive arc