Epilogue

Definition

An epilogue is a concluding section of a literary work, often reflecting on the events that have taken place and providing closure to the narrative. It serves to summarize key themes, offer insights into the characters’ futures, or comment on the overall message of the story. In theatrical contexts, especially in satirical comedy and morality plays, an epilogue can also serve to directly engage the audience, enhancing the experience and reinforcing the play's themes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Ben Jonson's works, epilogues often include humorous commentary that reflects his satirical take on society and human behavior.
2. Epilogues in morality plays frequently reinforce moral lessons by summarizing the consequences of characters' actions and choices.
3. An epilogue can serve as a direct address to the audience, creating a more personal connection and inviting them to reflect on the themes presented in the play.
4. The use of epilogues can vary in tone; they may be serious, humorous, or even melancholic, depending on the message the playwright intends to convey.
5. In many cases, epilogues act as a final word from the playwright or characters, emphasizing key takeaways or prompting the audience to consider their own moral standings.

Review Questions

• How does an epilogue function in Ben Jonson's satirical comedies compared to its role in morality plays?
  • In Ben Jonson's satirical comedies, an epilogue often employs humor and wit to critique societal norms and behaviors, leaving the audience with a sharp commentary on contemporary issues. In contrast, epilogues in morality plays are generally more serious and focus on imparting moral lessons by reflecting on the characters' journeys and their consequences. While both types of epilogues aim to provide closure, Jonson's approach leans towards satire while morality plays emphasize ethical reflections.
• Discuss the significance of audience engagement in the use of epilogues within theatrical works.
  • Epilogues play a crucial role in engaging audiences by offering direct addresses that encourage reflection on the themes and messages of the play. This interaction can deepen the audience's connection to the narrative, as they are invited to contemplate their own responses to the characters' experiences. By effectively bridging the gap between performance and audience perception, epilogues enhance the overall impact of the play and ensure that its moral or satirical elements resonate beyond the stage.
• Evaluate how epilogues contribute to the thematic development of both satirical comedies and morality plays.
  • Epilogues significantly contribute to thematic development by summarizing key ideas and reinforcing the central messages of both satirical comedies and morality plays. In satirical works, they may encapsulate critical views on society and human behavior, prompting audiences to question social conventions. Meanwhile, in morality plays, they serve to highlight ethical dilemmas and outcomes of characters' decisions, ultimately guiding viewers towards moral contemplation. By doing so, epilogues enhance understanding of complex themes and encourage audiences to reflect on their own beliefs and values.

Related terms

Prologue:

A prologue is an introductory section of a play or literary work that sets the stage for the story, providing background information or context.

Satire:

A literary technique that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize or mock social norms, politics, or individuals.

Allegory:

A narrative in which characters and events symbolize broader concepts and moral lessons, often used in morality plays to convey ethical messages.