What is an Epigraph? Examples and Usage

What is an Epigraph: An Introduction

Epigraphs are a fascinating literary device used by authors to set the tone of their work, provide insight into themes, or pay homage to influential texts. In this guide, we’ll explore what an epigraph is, its purpose, examples from literature and film, and essential copyright considerations. Effective epigraphs are typically concise, often consisting of just a few words.

Definition of an Epigraph

An epigraph is a short quotation, phrase, or poem placed at the beginning of a book, chapter, or section of a text. A word epigraph is a short quote or saying positioned at the beginning of a written work. It serves to introduce themes, provide context, or evoke a particular mood. The term “epigraph” originates from the Greek word epigraphein, meaning “to write on” or “to inscribe.”

Purpose of an Epigraph

Writers use epigraphs for various reasons, including: An epigraph suggests themes, introduces humor or contrast, sets the tone, provides context, or even introduces characters.

Setting the Tone: A well-chosen epigraph gives readers a sense of the book’s mood.
Foreshadowing Themes: It can hint at major themes or messages within the text.
Creating Literary Connections: Many authors use epigraphs to reference classic literature, historical texts, or poetry, aligning their work with a broader literary tradition.
Adding Depth: Epigraphs can intrigue readers by offering insight or an alternate perspective on the story’s content.

Epigraph vs. Epigram

Many confuse epigraphs with epigrams, but both leave a strong impression in a few words and serve different purposes:

Epigraph: A quote from another work placed at the beginning of a book or chapter.
Epigram: A short, witty, and often satirical statement written by the author.

Examples of Literary Epigraphs in Literature and Film

To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee: “Lawyers, I suppose, were children once.” (Charles Lamb)
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald: “Then wear the gold hat, if that will move her; If you can bounce high, bounce for her too.” Scott Fitzgerald’s use of this epigraph reflects the broader theme of the hollow pursuit of dreams and the lengths individuals will go to achieve their desires.
The Handmaid’s Tale by Margaret Atwood: Features three epigraphs, including a passage from the Bible.
Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas by Hunter S. Thompson: “He who makes a beast of himself gets rid of the pain of being a man.” (Samuel Johnson)

These are just a few epigraph examples from notable literary works.

In film, Stephen King frequently uses epigraphs in adaptations of his books, emphasizing the thematic elements of horror and suspense. A book’s epigraph can set the tone or hint at the central themes of the story.

Types of Epigraphs

Literary epigraphs can come from various sources, including:

Literature & Poetry: Classic and contemporary works.
Religious Texts: The Bible, the Quran, and other sacred writings.
Song Lyrics & Music: Though often requiring legal permissions.
Movies & Pop Culture: Quotes from films, speeches, or viral content.
Historical Documents: Political speeches, declarations, or philosophical texts.

Some works incorporate two or more quotations to create a dialogue, enhancing the reader’s engagement with the text.

How to Use an Opening Epigraph

Placement: Epigraphs typically appear before the main text, often on a separate page in books or beneath a chapter title. An opening epigraph should fit the genre of the book and be placed logically.
Formatting:

Epigraphs are italicized or set in a different font style.
The source is credited below the quote, often preceded by a dash (e.g., – William Shakespeare, Hamlet). Some works may include more than one epigraph, each serving a distinct purpose.

Strategic Selection: The quote should be relevant, thought-provoking, and add value to the reader’s experience.

Formatting an Epigraph

Formatting an epigraph is crucial to make it stand out from the rest of the text and to convey its significance. Here are some guidelines for formatting an epigraph:

Quotation Marks: Unlike regular quotations, epigraphs do not use quotation marks.
Typeface: Epigraphs are typically set in a smaller typeface than the main text, often in italics or a different font.
Indentation: The epigraph is usually indented from the right or left margin, creating a clear visual distinction from the main text.
Source Attribution: The source of the epigraph is typically given on a separate line, often preceded by a dash.
Minimal Annotation: Only the author’s name and title of the work need appear, and beyond this, it is customary not to annotate book epigraphs.
Documentation: Epigraphs do not require extensive documentation; it is sufficient to give the source under the epigraph, citing only the author.

For example: “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” — Socrates

In this example, the epigraph is set in a smaller typeface, indented from the right margin, and the source is given on a separate line. This formatting helps the epigraph stand out and emphasizes its importance.

Reader Response to Epigraphs

Readers’ responses to epigraphs can vary greatly. Some readers may find epigraphs to be a valuable addition to the text, providing insight into the author’s intentions and themes. Others may find them distracting or pretentious.

Common responses to epigraphs include:

Appreciation for Added Depth and Context: Many readers appreciate epigraphs for the additional layer of meaning they provide, offering a deeper understanding of the text and its themes.
Confusion or Distraction: Some readers may find epigraphs confusing or distracting, especially if the connection to the main text is not immediately clear.
Interest in Source Material: Epigraphs often pique readers’ interest in the source material, such as a poem or a quote from another literary work, encouraging them to explore further.

Overall, the response to an epigraph will depend on the individual reader and their preferences. While some may find them enriching, others might see them as an unnecessary embellishment.

Best Practices for Writing Epigraphs

When writing an epigraph, there are several best practices to keep in mind:

Relevance: Choose an epigraph that is closely related to the themes, tone, or subject matter of the text. This ensures that the epigraph adds meaningful context.
Conciseness: Epigraphs should be brief, typically no more than a few lines or a short paragraph. This keeps the focus on the main text while providing a succinct introduction.
Readability: Use a clear and readable font for the epigraph. The formatting should make it easy for readers to understand and appreciate the quote.
Proper Attribution: Always provide proper attribution for the epigraph, including the author’s name and title of the work. This respects the original creator and provides context for the reader.
Sparingly Use: Use epigraphs sparingly. While they can add depth, too many epigraphs can overwhelm or distract the reader from the main text.

By following these best practices, you can create an effective epigraph that enhances the reader’s experience and adds depth to your text.

Copyright Considerations

Before using an epigraph, it’s essential to check copyright laws:

Public Domain: Works published before 1929 (as of 2025) are generally free to use.
Fair Use: A limited quote may qualify as fair use, particularly in literary analysis or academic work.
Permissions: If a work is under copyright, permission must be obtained from the rights holder (author’s estate, publisher, etc.).

For example, the quotation ‘request thee’ from Milton’s ‘Paradise Lost’ is used as an epigraph in Mary Shelley’s ‘Frankenstein,’ illustrating how epigraphs encapsulate themes and set the tone for the literary work that follows.

Conclusion

Epigraphs are a powerful tool in literature, offering depth, context, and thematic resonance. Whether drawn from classic literature, poetry, or contemporary sources, a well-chosen epigraph can evoke themes such as the disillusionment of the lost generation and significantly enhance a book’s impact. However, always ensure legal compliance when selecting quotes.