Prologue

Definition

A prologue is an introductory section of a literary work that provides context, background information, or sets the tone for the story that follows. In drama, prologues serve to prepare the audience for what they are about to witness, often summarizing key themes or introducing characters and conflicts. They play a crucial role in engaging the audience and framing the narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Greek tragedy, the prologue often consists of a single actor delivering lines to establish the situation before the chorus enters.
2. Greek comedies may use prologues to introduce humorous elements and set up comedic situations that will unfold in the play.
3. During the Medieval period, prologues became common as playwrights sought to explain complex plots or moral lessons to their audiences.
4. Prologues can vary in length and style, ranging from brief statements to longer narratives that provide detailed context.
5. The use of prologues has influenced modern storytelling techniques, as they remain a popular device in literature and film for setting up stories.

Review Questions

• How does the prologue function differently in Greek tragedy compared to Greek comedy?
  • In Greek tragedy, the prologue serves as a serious introduction where essential background information is provided to set up themes and conflicts that are central to the tragic narrative. It often features a single character or actor delivering important lines before the chorus joins in. In contrast, Greek comedy uses prologues more playfully, often incorporating humor and satire while introducing comedic elements or absurd situations that prepare the audience for light-hearted entertainment.
• Discuss the role of the prologue in Medieval drama and its purpose in engaging audiences.
  • In Medieval drama, prologues played a significant role in connecting with audiences by providing context for complex narratives and moral lessons. They were often delivered by a narrator or character who would outline key themes and concepts relevant to the play’s message. By doing this, prologues helped audiences better understand the story's moral implications and made it easier for them to engage with the performance on both intellectual and emotional levels.
• Evaluate how the use of prologues in drama has evolved from Greek times to modern storytelling practices.
  • The evolution of prologues from Greek theater to modern storytelling reflects changing audience expectations and narrative techniques. In ancient Greece, prologues served as essential setups for complex plots laden with moral themes. Over time, as drama evolved through periods like Medieval theater, prologues adapted to include humor and broader societal commentary. In contemporary literature and film, prologues remain popular tools for establishing tone and setting up narratives while embracing varied styles that engage diverse audiences. This shift highlights an ongoing balance between tradition and innovation in storytelling.

Related terms

Chorus:

A group of performers in ancient Greek theater who provide commentary on the main action, often reflecting the collective voice of society.

Epilogue: A concluding section of a literary work that follows the main story, offering closure, reflections, or a glimpse into the future of the characters.

Exposition: The part of a story that provides essential background information about characters, events, or settings that is necessary for understanding the plot.