Understanding Epigraphs: Definition, Examples, and How to Use Them

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 20 June 2023 6 min read

When you open a book and find a powerful quote or proverb that seems to capture the essence of the story, you've stumbled upon an epigraph. Epigraphs are fascinating literary devices that connect readers with the themes and ideas of a written work. In this blog, we'll explore the world of epigraphs, starting with the epigraph definition, and provide examples, tips, and insights on how to use them effectively in your own writing.

1. What are Epigraphs?

Epigraphs are short quotations, proverbs, or sayings that appear at the beginning of a book, chapter, or other piece of writing. They serve to set the tone or suggest the theme of the work that follows. Let's break down the concept of epigraphs further by looking at their definition, purpose, and examples.

1.1 Definition

An epigraph is a brief quotation, saying, or proverb placed at the beginning of a literary work to hint at its theme or subject matter. They can be taken from various sources such as literature, poems, religious texts, or even pop culture. Epigraphs are like signposts that guide readers towards the core ideas of the text that follows.

1.2 Purpose

Epigraphs serve several purposes in a literary work:

Setting the tone: An epigraph can create a specific mood or atmosphere that prepares readers for the story.
Introducing the theme: It can hint at the central theme or message of the work, giving readers a glimpse into the author's intentions.
Connecting with other works: An epigraph may reference other literary works, creating a connection between the text and broader literary traditions.
Adding depth: By offering a thought-provoking quotation, an epigraph can invite readers to ponder deeper meanings and ideas within the story.

1.3 Examples

Here are some examples of epigraphs from various literary works:

“Lawyers, I suppose, were children once.”
— Charles Lamb

(Epigraph in To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee)

“The sun shone, having no alternative, on the nothing new.”
— Samuel Beckett

(Epigraph in The Road by Cormac McCarthy)

“It was a bright cold day in April, and the clocks were striking thirteen.”
— George Orwell

(Epigraph in A Scanner Darkly by Philip K. Dick)

2. How to Use Epigraphs

Now that we understand what epigraphs are and their role in literature, let's dive into how you can use them effectively in your own writing. We'll discuss selecting an epigraph, placing it in your work, formatting it, and when to avoid using one.

2.1 Selecting an Epigraph

Choosing the right epigraph is an art in itself. Here are some tips to help you select an epigraph that will resonate with your readers:

Relevance: The epigraph should be relevant to the theme or subject of your work. Think about the core message you want to convey and look for a quotation that complements or illuminates it.
Source: Consider the source of the epigraph. It can be from a famous author, a religious text, a historical figure, or even a song lyric. Choose a source that will resonate with your target audience and enhance the impact of your work.
Length: Keep it short. A lengthy epigraph can be distracting or confusing. Aim for a brief, thought-provoking quote that will leave a lasting impression on your readers.
Originality: While it’s fine to use a well-known quote, try to find something fresh and unexpected. An original epigraph can spark intrigue and make your work stand out.

2.2 Placement of Epigraphs

Epigraphs are typically placed at the beginning of a book, chapter, or section. Here are some options for positioning your epigraph:

Book: Place the epigraph on a separate page before the main text begins, after the title page and any dedications or acknowledgements.
Chapter: Include the epigraph at the beginning of a chapter, before the chapter title or immediately after it.
Section: Position the epigraph before the first paragraph of a section or essay, setting it apart from the main text.

2.3 Formatting Epigraphs

When it comes to formatting epigraphs, simplicity is key. Here are some guidelines to follow:

Indentation: Indent the epigraph so it stands out from the main text.
Italics: Use italics to emphasize the quote, making it distinct from the surrounding text.
Attribution: Include the author or source of the quote, typically on the line below the epigraph and aligned to the right.
Spacing: Leave some space between the epigraph and the main text to create a visual separation.

2.4 When to Avoid Epigraphs

While epigraphs can enhance many literary works, they're not always the right choice. Consider avoiding an epigraph in the following situations:

Unnecessary complexity: If the epigraph adds confusion or detracts from the main message of your work, it's best to leave it out.
Cliché: If the quote you've chosen is overused or cliché, it may do more harm than good. Aim for originality and impact when selecting an epigraph.
Lengthy works: In a long or complex work with multiple themes and ideas, an epigraph may not effectively capture the essence of the entire piece. In such cases, consider using epigraphs for individual chapters or sections instead.

3. Epigraphs in Famous Literature

Epigraphs have been used effectively in many famous literary works, adding depth and resonance to their themes and messages. Let's explore some well-known examples from classic novels and learn how these epigraphs contribute to the overall impact of the stories.

3.1 To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

In her Pulitzer Prize-winning novel, Harper Lee uses an epigraph to set the tone for the story:

Lawyers, I suppose, were children once.

This quote, attributed to Charles Lamb, is a subtle reminder of the innocence of childhood and the moral compass that guides the protagonist, Atticus Finch, throughout the novel. The epigraph serves to frame the story as a reflection on justice, empathy, and the loss of innocence.

3.2 The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald

Fitzgerald's classic novel includes an epigraph in the form of a poem:

Although attributed to a fictional poet, Thomas Parke D'Invilliers, the poem was actually written by Fitzgerald himself. The epigraph highlights the themes of wealth, ambition, and the pursuit of a dream, as embodied by the novel's enigmatic protagonist, Jay Gatsby.

3.3 Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Mary Shelley's groundbreaking novel is introduced with an epigraph from John Milton's "Paradise Lost":

This quote speaks to the novel's central themes of creation, responsibility, and the consequences of playing God. By invoking "Paradise Lost," Shelley connects her story to the larger tradition of literature exploring the human desire for knowledge and the potential dangers that accompany it.

4. Epigraphs in Modern Writing

Epigraphs aren't only reserved for classic literature; contemporary writers also use them to add depth and meaning to their work. Let's explore how epigraphs are used in various modern writing forms, such as novels, short stories, and essays.

4.1 Epigraphs in Novels

Modern novels often use epigraphs to hint at themes, set the tone, or provide context for the story. For instance, J.K. Rowling uses an epigraph in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows," quoting Aeschylus and William Penn to emphasize themes of mortality and the importance of love.

4.2 Epigraphs in Short Stories

While less common in short stories, epigraphs can still offer valuable insights into the narrative. For example, in Ted Chiang's "Story of Your Life," the author quotes a passage from the Bible's Book of Ecclesiastes, which alludes to the story's exploration of time and the human experience.

4.3 Epigraphs in Essays

Essays can also benefit from an epigraph to frame the argument or provide context. A well-chosen quote can help the reader understand the author's perspective or prompt them to consider a new idea. For example, an essay discussing the impact of technology on communication might use an epigraph from Marshall McLuhan's famous phrase, "The medium is the message," to prompt the reader to consider the relationship between technology and human interaction.

In conclusion, whether you're reading classic literature or modern works, you'll likely come across epigraphs that enhance your understanding and appreciation of the story. By understanding the purpose and use of epigraphs, you can better appreciate their impact and even consider using one in your own writing. Keep an eye out for these powerful literary devices and enjoy the added depth they bring to the written word.

If you enjoyed this blog post and want to delve deeper into understanding your creative journey, be sure to check out Philippe's workshop, 'You Are Here: Creative Mapping'. This workshop will help you visualize and navigate your own creative path, providing valuable insights and guidance to support your growth and development as an artist.