Epigraph (literature)

The epigraph ( gr ἐπιγραφή epigraphs " inscription ", " inscription " ) is an obsolete term for an ancient inscription. The auxiliary historical science that deals with such inscriptions is known as epigraphy.

In a figurative sense epigraph is used for a quote or any other set that is preceded by a literary work or portions thereof as an introduction to the next topic or embellishment of the theme.