Epilogue

An epilogue is a concluding section at the end of a literary work that comments on the main narrative, reveals outcomes for characters, or shows the world after the events of the story. It provides closure and may extend beyond the immediate plot to address themes or future consequences.

In drama, epilogues are often spoken directly to the audience, sometimes by a character, summarizing fates and inviting reflection. In novels and other prose, an epilogue may appear as a final chapter or a short passage that leaps forward in time, revisits key themes, or offers a long-term view of the characters’ lives without changing the immediate ending of the plot.

Etymology and usage: the term derives from Greek epilogos, meaning “spoken upon” or “added on,” from epi “upon” and logos “word.” It entered English in the late 16th century and has since been used across genres, though its form and purpose vary by work.

Differences from related terms: a prologue is an opening section that introduces the setting, characters, or situation; an afterword is a concluding note, often by the author, that comments on the work or its creation; a coda is a concluding passage that emphasizes finality rather than narrative progression; a postscript is a brief note added after the main text, usually in correspondence.

Examples and variations: Shakespeare’s The Tempest culminates with an epilogue spoken to the audience, while many modern novels include an epilogue to reveal the characters’ lives years later. In film and television, epilogues may appear as final scenes or post-credits sequences to extend the sense of closure.