What is the primary purpose of a prologue in a literary work?

The primary purpose of a prologue is to provide background information. It often serves as an introduction to the world of the story, setting the stage for the events that will unfold. In a prologue, the author can outline essential context, such as historical, social, or character-related details that enhance the reader's understanding of the main narrative. By offering this foundational information at the beginning of the work, the prologue prepares readers for the plot and themes that will develop, making it easier for them to engage with the story.

While introducing various themes is a possibility in a prologue, this is not its main function—rather, themes typically emerge more fully through the narrative itself. Similarly, the prologue generally does not present the climax of the story, as climaxes occur later in the plot, and it is also not intended to summarize the plot, which is usually done in other parts of the text. Overall, the prologue’s role in establishing background is crucial for setting up the reader's understanding of the forthcoming events and characters.