Epilogue

Definition

An epilogue is a concluding section of a literary work that serves to provide closure and reflect on the events of the story, often revealing the fates of characters after the main action has concluded. It can also offer moral lessons or commentary, tying together themes presented throughout the piece. In the context of drama, especially in ancient Greek theater and medieval morality plays, the epilogue plays a significant role in framing the audience's understanding of the narrative and its implications.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In ancient Greek theater, epilogues were often delivered by a character or chorus to summarize the themes and outcomes of the play, helping to reinforce its moral message.
2. Medieval morality plays frequently included an epilogue that served to remind the audience of the spiritual lessons learned and encourage reflection on moral behavior.
3. Epilogues can serve as a bridge between the story and the audience, allowing for direct engagement and contemplation on the events that transpired.
4. The use of epilogues is not uniform; some plays may have them while others do not, depending on the intended impact on the audience.
5. Epilogues can vary in tone from serious to light-hearted, allowing playwrights to shape how audiences feel about the conclusion of their stories.

Review Questions

• How does the use of an epilogue enhance the overall impact of a play in ancient Greek theater?
  • The epilogue in ancient Greek theater serves as a crucial tool for enhancing the overall impact of a play by providing closure to the audience. It helps summarize key themes and moral lessons while reflecting on the consequences of characters' actions. This not only aids in reinforcing the narrative's message but also encourages audiences to consider their own moral decisions in relation to what they have witnessed.
• Discuss how medieval religious drama utilized epilogues differently compared to ancient Greek plays.
  • Medieval religious drama often utilized epilogues as a means to reinforce spiritual messages and ethical teachings specifically tailored to a Christian audience. While ancient Greek plays might focus more on human experiences and consequences, medieval epilogues directly addressed issues of sin, redemption, and morality. They often included calls to repentance or reminders of divine judgment, connecting directly with audience beliefs and values.
• Evaluate the significance of an epilogue in shaping audience perception in both ancient Greek theater and medieval morality plays.
  • The significance of an epilogue in both ancient Greek theater and medieval morality plays lies in its ability to shape audience perception by providing a reflective lens through which to view the narrative. In Greek theater, it reinforces themes related to fate, human agency, and morality, while in medieval plays, it emphasizes religious lessons and moral conduct. By creating this space for reflection at the end of a performance, playwrights ensure that audiences leave with a deeper understanding of their work's implications, urging them to contemplate both their actions and beliefs in light of what they have experienced.

Related terms

Prologue:

An introductory section of a literary work that sets the stage for the main narrative and provides background information or context.

Denouement: The final resolution or outcome of the plot in a story, where conflicts are resolved and loose ends are tied up.

Chorus: A group of performers in ancient Greek theater who comment on the action, provide context, and sometimes deliver moral lessons throughout the play.