Definition

1. Noun:
   • An introductory section of a literary or dramatic work: A "prologue" is a distinct opening section that precedes the main narrative of a play, novel, or other literary work. It often sets the scene, introduces themes, or provides background information.
   • An introductory event or action: Figuratively, a "prologue" can refer to any event or series of actions that serves as an introduction to a more important event.

Usage and Examples

• Noun (Literary Introduction):
  • The play's prologue was delivered by a single actor on a bare stage.
  • The novel begins with a prologue set twenty years before the main story.
• Noun (Introductory Event):
  • The minor skirmish was merely a prologue to the full-scale war that followed.
  • These negotiations are the prologue to a more significant trade agreement.

Advanced Usage

• "To serve as a prologue to": To act as an introductory event leading to something more substantial.
  • The diplomatic incident served as a prologue to a major international crisis.

Variants and Related Words

• Prologize (verb, rare): To write or speak a prologue.
• Prologist (noun, rare): A writer of prologues.

Synonyms

• Introduction: A beginning section.
• Preamble: A preliminary statement, often in a formal document.
• Preface: An introductory essay in a book, typically by the author.
• Foreword: An introductory statement in a book, often by someone other than the author.
• Prelude: An action or event serving as an introduction.

Antonyms

• Epilogue: A concluding section added to a literary or dramatic work.
• Conclusion: The final part of something.
• Postscript: An additional remark at the end of a letter or book.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "A prologue to": Used to describe something that foreshadows or introduces a subsequent event.
  • The economic reforms were a prologue to a period of rapid growth.

Noun

1. an introduction to a play