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prologue
IPA:

Dictionary definition of prologue
A section or introduction that comes before the main story or body of a literary work such as a play, novel or epic poem.
"The filmmaker decided to include a prologue to set the tone for the movie."
Detailed meaning of prologue
It serves as a preface or an opening statement that sets the scene, establishes background information, or introduces characters and themes that will be explored later in the work. The prologue is a useful tool for authors to provide context, background information or to give the reader a glimpse into the story's setting, characters, or themes. It can also be used to give the reader a sense of what is to come in the story, to create suspense or intrigue, or to provide a different point of view on the story's events. In a play, a prologue is often spoken by a chorus or a narrator and can be used to explain the background of the play or to give an overview of the story. In a novel, a prologue can be used to give a glimpse of a future event or to provide background information on the story's setting or characters. It can also be used in poetry to give a brief summary of the poem's theme or to convey a message before the poem starts.
Example sentences containing prologue
1. The prologue sets the stage for the epic adventure that follows.
2. In the play's prologue, the chorus foreshadows the tragic events.
3. The novel's prologue introduces the reader to the mysterious protagonist.
4. A good prologue can capture the reader's interest from the start.
5. The prologue offered a glimpse into the character's troubled past.
6. The prologue serves as a bridge between the past and present.
History and etymology of prologue
The noun 'prologue' has its origins in ancient Greek, specifically from the word 'prologos.' In this word, 'pro' means 'before,' and 'logos' means 'word' or 'speech.' The concept of a prologue in literature goes back to Greek drama, where it referred to a preliminary discourse or introductory speech delivered by one of the actors before the main action of the play began. This practice of using a prologue to set the stage or provide essential background information gradually made its way into other forms of literature. As a result, the term 'prologue' now denotes an introductory section that precedes the main story or body of a literary work, be it a play, novel, or epic poem, serving to provide context or engage the audience before delving into the primary narrative.
Further usage examples of prologue
1. In the movie's prologue, the backstory of the villain is revealed.
2. A well-written prologue can create intrigue and anticipation.
3. The prologue provides context for understanding the historical events.
4. The epic poem's prologue pays homage to the muses of inspiration.
5. The prologue sets the tone for the romance that unfolds.
6. In Shakespearean plays, the prologue often features a soliloquy.
7. The prologue offers a glimpse into the world of the story.
8. The prologue serves as a doorway into the fantastical realm.
9. The prologue introduces the reader to the main conflict of the novel.
10. The prologue hints at the challenges the characters will face.
11. The prologue is a tantalizing teaser for what lies ahead.
12. In the prologue, the author shares personal reflections on the topic.
13. The prologue is like a prologue to life, setting the stage for the journey.
14. A captivating prologue can draw readers into a story's embrace.
15. The novel's prologue provided a brief overview of the story to come.
16. The play's prologue introduced the setting and characters to the audience.
17. The book's prologue was so compelling that it made me want to keep reading.
18. The historical prologue provided important context for the events that followed.
19. The author wrote a prologue to explain the inspiration behind the book.
20. The prologue of the opera featured a solo by the lead singer.
21. The prologue of the game provided a tutorial for new players.
22. The artist included a prologue to her exhibit, describing her creative process.
23. The prologue of the documentary provided a brief history of the subject matter.
24. The prologue of the speech set the stage for the speaker's main points.
25. The prologue of the TV series featured a montage of key moments from the show.
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Literary and Artistic Elements, Communication and Expression, Writing and Composing
explanation,opening,preamble,preface,prelude
beginning,exordium,foreword,proem
Synonyms for prologue
Quiz categories containing prologue
introduction, epilogue, conclusion, ending
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