Prologue

Definition

A prologue is an introductory section of a literary work, often providing background information, context, or setting the tone for the story. In plays, it serves as a way to prepare the audience for what is to come, often outlining themes or foreshadowing events. Prologues can also be used to address the audience directly, creating a connection before the narrative unfolds.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In William Congreve's plays, prologues often serve to engage the audience and set up the comedic tone present in works like 'The Way of the World' and 'Love for Love'.
2. Prologues in Congreve's plays typically feature clever wordplay and wit, reflecting his skillful use of language.
3. Congreve's prologues can also address societal norms and expectations, commenting on contemporary issues relevant to his audience.
4. The prologue often includes references to the play's themes, helping audiences anticipate conflicts and character dynamics.
5. By establishing a direct connection with the audience through humor and insight, prologues enhance the overall theatrical experience in Congreve's works.

Review Questions

• How do prologues in William Congreve's plays serve to engage and prepare the audience?
  • Prologues in William Congreve's plays actively engage the audience by using humor and wit to establish a connection before the story begins. They provide an introduction that sets up the comedic tone and introduces key themes relevant to the narrative. By addressing contemporary social issues and expectations, these prologues prepare the audience for the unfolding action, making them feel involved right from the start.
• Analyze how Congreve uses prologues to comment on societal norms within 'The Way of the World' and 'Love for Love'.
  • Congreve skillfully uses prologues in both 'The Way of the World' and 'Love for Love' to comment on societal norms and conventions of his time. By addressing issues such as love, marriage, and social status directly in the prologue, he sets a critical tone that resonates throughout the plays. This not only prepares the audience for the characters' actions but also invites them to reflect on their own societal values.
• Evaluate the impact of prologues on audience reception of Congreve’s works in relation to contemporary theatrical conventions.
  • Prologues significantly impact audience reception by aligning Congreve’s works with contemporary theatrical conventions that emphasized audience engagement. By incorporating humor and clever commentary into his prologues, Congreve elevated the expectation for theatrical performance during his time. This technique allowed him to critique social mores while simultaneously entertaining his audience, ultimately enhancing their enjoyment and investment in the narrative that follows.

Related terms

Epilogue: An epilogue is a concluding section of a literary work that provides closure, often summarizing the aftermath of the plot and the fate of the characters.

Exposition: Exposition is the part of a narrative that introduces background information about characters, settings, and events that are crucial for understanding the plot.

Dramatic Monologue: A dramatic monologue is a type of poem or speech in which a single speaker addresses an audience, revealing their thoughts and feelings in a specific context.