Prologue and Epilogue in Drama, Dramatic Devices, Elements of Drama

In Sanskrit literature, we have the drmatic devices called "Sutradhar" and "Bharat Vakya". Similarly, "Prologue" and "Epilogue" are the two important dramatic devices used by the English dramatists. 

As we know, the drama has five stages in its plot construction as suggested by Freytag.

Prologue: The dramatist wants to introduce several characters, major theme etc. in the beginning of his play. For that he uses Prologue.

Epilogue: At the end, the dramatist wants to conclude by presenting a resolution to all doubts and conflicts. For this he uses Epilogue.

Feature	Prologue	Epilogue
Purpose	To introduce the story or event and set the stage for what is to come.	To provide a resolution and conclude the story or event
Timing	Happens before the main events of the story unfold.	Occurs after the main events of the story have taken place.
Length	Typically longer than the epilogue	Usually shorter in comparison to the prologue
Content	The prologue provides background information on the story, sets the context, and may provide insight into the themes or motivations that drive the narrative	The epilogue provides closure on the story or characters by summarizing the events that have taken place and offering a resolution

 Watch a video on Elizabethan Drama.