Here's what epigraphs do:
* Set the mood or tone: The epigraph can be used to establish a particular atmosphere or feeling for the work.
* Introduce key themes: It can foreshadow important ideas or motifs that will be explored throughout the story.
* Provide context: The epigraph might offer historical or cultural background, connecting the work to a larger conversation.
* Create an ironic or contrasting effect: The epigraph might intentionally clash with the text, highlighting a particular point or creating a sense of tension.
* Offer a commentary: The epigraph could act as a direct commentary on the story, offering an alternative perspective or interpretation.
Think of it like this: Imagine you're about to watch a movie. The opening credits show a quote from a famous philosopher, hinting at the themes of the film. That quote is an epigraph.
Examples:
* "The only way to get rid of temptation is to yield to it." - Oscar Wilde (Used as an epigraph in The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde)
* "All that is gold does not glitter, Not all those who wander are lost; The old that is strong does not wither, Deep roots are not reached by the frost." - J.R.R. Tolkien (Used as an epigraph in The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien)
Remember: Epigraphs can be subtle or direct, and their meaning can be complex. They add depth and richness to a literary work, inviting readers to consider different layers of interpretation.