protasis
- noun
- /proʊˈtæsɪs/
- Literature
:
protasis
- In classical drama, the protasis was essential for establishing the background of the story.
Examples
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The audience listened closely as the protasis set the stage for the unfolding events.
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The protasis of the novel carefully introduced the main characters and their relationships.
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The protasis sets the scene.
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In Shakespeare's plays, the protasis often introduces the main conflict.
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The protasis of the play effectively engaged the audience by introducing the main characters and their struggles.
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In every great story, the protasis serves to create anticipation by outlining the key elements of the narrative.
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The film's protasis provided crucial context that helped viewers understand the protagonist's motivations.
Synonyms
21
6.0
An opening part of a play that explains the story or background
9
4.9
A short introduction before the main part of a talk or story
1
9.9
A short speech at the start of a Spanish play that praises someone
1
9.5
A short introduction at the start of a book, poem, or speech
An introduction before a book or play that gives background
A short introduction before the main part of a book
How Detailed
16
5.5
81
2.1
- Literature
- Literature
21
6.0
- Literature
9
4.9
Surface Forms
Etymology
Protasis comes from Greek pro- 'before' and a root meaning 'to place', so it literally means 'what comes before'. Like a prologue, the protasis is the opening part of a play or story that sets the scene.