Few elements in the realms of fiction ignite as much debate as the prologue. Some readers love them, seeing them as a tantalising glimpse into a story’s world. Others skip them altogether, eager to dive straight into Chapter One. Writers, too, are torn – some swear by the prologue as a crucial storytelling tool, whereas others argue that it’s an unnecessary crutch. So, what is a prologue really? Today at What We Writing, we’re breaking down exactly what a prologue is, why authors use it, and how you can decide whether your own story needs one. Along the way, we’ll take a look at different types of prologues, famous examples from literature, common mistakes to avoid, and provide a step-by-step guide to writing one that hooks your audience instantly. By the end, you’ll have both a clear definition and practical advice you can apply immediately to your writing.
What Is A Prologue?
A prologue is a piece of writing found at the start of a manuscript, nestled before the first chapter, and separate from the main story. The definition of prologue introduces important information – namely background details, characters or conflict – that have some connection to the main story, but how it all comes together isn’t immediately obvious.
The term “prologue” comes from the Greek word “prologos,” meaning “before word”. The Ancient Greeks frequently used prologues in their dramatic works of theatre, where they served more as a first act of the play. Over time, prologues grew into a literary device used in everything from Romeo and Juliet to contemporary thrillers and fantasy stories.
In fiction today, a prologue serves numerous purposes: it can set the tone, provide essential background information, or foreshadow crucial events that will shape the story. When used effectively, it intrigues the audience and builds anticipation for what’s to come.
What Is The Purpose Of A Prologue?
Prologues serve a vital role in fiction writing, as well as playwriting. In modern literature, Geoffrey Chaucer began the tradition of using a prologue with his classic work, The Canterbury Tales, a collection of 24 stories penned between 1387 to 1400. Chaucer used his prologue as a sort of roadmap for the whole work, which tells the story of a group of pilgrims on their way to Canterbury.
A good prologue performs one of many functions in a story:
- Foreshadowing events to come;
- Providing background information or backstory to the central conflict;
- Establishing a point of view (either the main character’s or another character’s who is able to see the plot);
- Establishing the tone for the story or play;
Types Of Prologues (With Examples)
Not all prologues look the same. Depending on the story’s needs, writers use different styles to set their stage. Here are some of the most common types with iconic examples of prologues in literature:
1. Expository Prologue
This type provides readers with important background information or context before the main plot gets underway. It often explains the world, setting, or history that shapes the story.
- Example: In Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare’s chorus delivers a sonnet that informs the audience about the “star-cross’d lovers” before all the drama unfolds.
2. Character-Driven Prologue
Here, the prologue is told through the perspective of a character – sometimes one who won’t even appear again in the story. It’s a way of revealing a voice, a viewpoint, or a piece of the puzzle that the main narrative won’t provide straight away.
- Example: The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo opens with an elderly man receiving an anonymous gift, an event that sets the mystery in motion, but isn’t fully explained until much later on.
3. Action or Thriller-Style Prologue
Fast-paced and dramatic, this type drops the reader straight into a high-stakes moment. It’s designed to hook attention with suspense, danger, or conflict, even if the main story timeline picks up elsewhere.
- Example: George R.R. Martin’s A Game of Thrones begins with a chilling scene from beyond the Wall, hinting at the dark forces that threaten Westeros.
4. Document or Letter Prologue
Some stories use fictional documents – letters, diary entries, myths, or newspaper clippings – to provide context. This approach lends authenticity and a grounded sense of realism, particularly in works of historical or gothic fiction.
- Example: In Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, the story is framed by a series of letters written by Captain Walton, pulling readers into Victor Frankenstein’s story.
Prologue Vs Preface Vs Foreword Vs Introduction Differences
Whilst prefaces, forewords, and introductions all serve a similar role of providing additional context for the content to come, they have some crucial differences from a prologue.
Prefaces
A preface is written from the perspective of the author, not a character or narrator. It explains the origins, development, legacy, or aims of the book, and often acknowledges others who have contributed. Prefaces are used primarily in nonfiction books, but can sometimes crop up in fiction, too.
Check Out Our Guide To Prefaces vs Prologues
Forewords
A foreword is written by a critic, a subject matter expert, or other public figures who aren’t the author. A foreword usually introduces readers to the book by connecting its content or themes to their own experience. Forewords are used in both fiction and nonfiction writing.
Introductions
An introduction is written from the point of view of the author and serves to provide additional information to help the reader understand the subject of the book, including historical context. Introductions are normally found in nonfiction works.
While it can adopt one of the forms above, a prologue is always a work of fiction.
Check Out Our Guide On How To Write An Introduction
How To Write A Prologue
Knowing how to write a prologue isn’t just about crafting a strong opening scene – it’s about choosing whether your story requires one in the first place. A prologue should serve the narrative, not weigh it down. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Decide Whether Your Story Actually Needs One
Ask yourself: would this information work just as well in Chapter One? If the answer is yes, you might not need that prologue. Use one only if it adds something to the main story that it wouldn’t be able to provide on its own – mystery, context, or a glimpse from a different perspective.
2. Choose the Right Type for Your Book
Match the prologue style to your story’s needs: expository for background, character-driven for intrigue, action-packed for suspense, or document-style for atmosphere. (You can find some examples below).
3. Keep it Snappy
A prologue isn’t meant to be Chapter Zero. Aim for one concise scene, not a long info-dump. Readers should leave the prologue curious, not overwhelmed.
4. Make it Engaging and Essential
Treat your prologue like any other part of the book: it needs to have strong writing, a clear purpose, and an emotional impact. If readers skip it, they should feel like they’re missing out on something important.
5. Ensure it Connects Naturally to Chapter One
A good prologue sets the stage for the main story. Whether it’s a foreshadowing event, a character detail, or a piece of worldbuilding, it should flow seamlessly into Chapter One rather than feeling tacked on.
FAQs
Do you have to read the prologue in a book?
Yes – if a book includes a prologue, it typically includes information that enhances the story. Some readers skip over the prologues, but doing so can mean missing out on key background, foreshadowing, or character details.
How long should a prologue be?
A prologue should be short and to the point with a clear purpose. It shouldn’t go on much longer than a few pages. In most instances, 1-5 pages (or under 1,500 words) is enough to set the stage without dragging on.
Do publishers dislike prologues?
Not necessarily, however, many publishers and agents caution against them. Prologues are often misused as info-dumps or unnecessary teasers. If yours is engaging, essential, and connects naturally to Chapter One, it can work in your favour.
Is a prologue necessary?
No, a prologue is never a necessity. Many successful novels open straight with Chapter One. A prologue should only be used if it adds unique value that the main story can’t easily provide.
James has been passionate about storytelling ever since he could hold a pen. Inspired by the epic fantasy and historical dramas he devoured in his youth, his work now centers on dark, psychological tales featuring intense, introspective characters and atmospheric, gothic undertones. In 2025, he founded What We Writing to share his creative journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way with fellow writers and passionate storytellers.
