What is a prologue

 

What is a prologue? What purpose does the prologue Xserve in The Frogs?

 

Ans. The prologue is an introduction to the main action of the play. In 7he Frogs it may be called the exposition. The prologue here makes clear what the playwright is going to portray and what will be the shape of the idea in the drama. The play begins with a prologue outside the house of Heracles in Athens. Dionysus is the god of fertility and wine. He is also the patron of drama. In the very beginning, this god is presented with his slave Xanthias on the stage, ready for an excursion. The slave is bent down under the weight of luggage. Xanthias complains about the excessive weight of the luggage. Dionysus assures that the donkey will carry the load.

 

They reach the front door and knock and they are allowed to enter. Heracles cannot help laughing at the appearance of Dionysus who appears heroic and effeminate. Heracles tries to read his purpose. It is clear that he has entered the underworld to take back dead Euripides because no one is able to create so beautifully as the dead writer. Heracles cannot believe his ears. Now it becomes clear to him why he has doused the strange dress. Now he shows them the shortest way to reach there and see the Initiates The dead mar as well as the luggage will be carried by four assistants. The main purpose of Dionysus to go there becomes clear. Through this prologue it becomes clear.