The full meaning of epilogue is "concluding section of a literary work".
An epilogue is generally the concluding material at the end of a work of literature that brings closure to the work. It is usually written in the form of a dialogue or narration and sometimes serves to explain events or tie up loose ends left in the story. An epilogue is often seen as an opportunity to provide an insight into what happened to the characters after the conclusion of the story and how events unfolded in the future. In some cases, it also serves as a moral lesson for the reader.
Epilogues can be used to provide closure to many genres of writing, from novels, novellas, short stories, poems, and plays. For example, in William Shakespeare’s tragedy Hamlet, Claudius and Laertes make up one of the longest and most emotionally charged epilogues in literature.
Also, epilogues can take the form of reflections on the subjects, themes, or events explored in a particular work. For example, in Ernest Hemingway’s novel The Old Man and the Sea, Hemingway's epilogue reflects on the human spirit and its perseverance in the face of difficult odds.
Epilogues can also be used as an effective storytelling tool to expand the depth of a work of literature. This can be done by introducing new characters, exploring the relationship between major characters, or even providing a glimpse into the future of the characters.
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