Prologue

A prologue is used to introduce a story or play, often providing background information and setting the stage for the events to come. It is typically found at the beginning of a piece of literature and is often written in a different style or tone than the rest of the work. Prologues can be used to establish the themes and tone of the work, introduce the main characters or conflicts, or provide historical or cultural context for the story. They are a common device in many forms of literature, including novels, plays, and epic poems.

Examples of prologue:

William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet – The prologue to this play is written in sonnet form and sets the stage for the tragic events to come. It establishes the feud between the Montagues and Capulets and foreshadows the tragic ending of the play.

J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings – The prologue to this epic fantasy novel provides historical context for the story, describing the creation of Middle-earth and the rise of the Dark Lord Sauron. It also sets the stage for the main conflict of the story, the quest to destroy the One Ring.

Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales – The prologue to this collection of stories introduces the main characters, who are on a pilgrimage to Canterbury, and provides social commentary on the medieval society in which they live.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein – The prologue to this novel sets the stage for the events to come, introducing the main character, Robert Walton, and providing a frame narrative for the story.

J.K. Rowling’s Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone – The prologue to this novel introduces the magical world of Hogwarts and sets the stage for Harry’s journey as a wizard. It also foreshadows the main conflict of the story, Harry’s battle against the evil Lord Voldemort.