The purpose of an epigraph is to what?

An epigraph serves several purposes, but its primary function is to provide context or thematic resonance for the work that follows.

Here's a breakdown of how it accomplishes this:

* Setting the tone: An epigraph can introduce a mood, theme, or idea that the work will explore.

* Providing a counterpoint: It can offer a contrasting perspective or raise questions that the work will attempt to answer.

* Adding layers of meaning: An epigraph can enrich the understanding of the text by alluding to other works of art, literature, or philosophy.

* Establishing an authorial voice: The choice of epigraph reveals the author's influences, interests, and intentions.

Think of an epigraph like a musical prelude: it prepares the listener for the main theme and sets the stage for what's to come.