he purpose of a prologue in a drama is to tell about the characters, setting, and
Answers
The prologue has been a part of drama since ages. The Greeks extensively used it, as did the playwrights of the Elizabethan times, including Shakespeare. The main functions of a prologue are to introduce the leading characters, give information about the settings and also briefly touch upon the main themes of the play. It is through the prologue that the dramatist tells the audience of a ‘back story’ so that they are better able to understand the complications in the story. It provides useful information that helps create interest in the play and gets the audience to focus on the play.
The word prologue or prolog is taken from the Greek word prologos in which pro means before and logos means word. In a drama a prologue is an opening to a story. It gives the background details and establishes the context. Sometimes it mentions an earlier story which is connected to the main one.
In Romeo and Juliet a prologue not only sets the scene but also tells the audience what is going to happen in the play.