Trilogie

Trilogie, or trilogy in English, refers to a set of three works that are linked by a single narrative arc, shared world, or recurring characters. These works are typically presented as a coherent sequence in literature, film, television, or games, with the third installment often intended to conclude the overarching story and themes established in the first two entries. Some trilogies are tightly planned from the outset, while others emerge when earlier installments prove successful.

The term derives from the French trilogie, which in turn traces to Greek roots signifying “three” and a form of discourse or collection. In practice, trilogies are recognized by their three-part structure, though some are marketed as a single story published or released in three parts, and a few expand into longer series.

Planning and structure vary. Some trilogies are conceived as three works from the start, while others are retroactively framed as a trilogy after a strong first or second entry. Critical assessment often focuses on cohesion across installments, the growth or arc of characters, and whether the final act provides satisfactory resolution.

Notable examples span media. In film, the Star Wars original trilogy and The Godfather trilogy are widely cited; in literature, Satyajit Ray’s Apu Trilogy and Krzysztof Kieślowski’s Three Colors films are frequently discussed, as is J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Lord of the Rings as a single narrative told in three volumes. Trilogies remain a common form for long-form storytelling, offering a complete, self-contained arc within three works.