Sentence:  True, as the show has entered its later years, there have been more inspired moments of <WSD>catharsis</WSD>, but fewer unpredictable arcs and story beats, as a narrative nearing its conclusion is no longer attempting to shock. 
Meaning of the word marked with <WSD> tags:  A release of emotional tension after an overwhelming vicarious experience, resulting in the purging or purification of the emotions, as through watching a dramatic production (especially a tragedy).