Tetralogy

A tetralogy is a compound literary or artistic work consisting of four distinct parts. These parts, while individually complete or nearly complete, are linked by common themes, characters, or plot elements. A tetralogy is thus a sequence of four works that form a larger, unified whole.

Unlike an anthology, where works are often unrelated except by a broad theme, a tetralogy is a deliberately constructed set of works designed to be understood in relation to one another. The order in which the works are experienced is usually crucial to understanding the overarching narrative or thematic concerns.

Tetralogies can be found in various art forms, including:

• Literature: A series of four novels, plays, or poems that tell a larger story or explore a common theme.
• Film: A sequence of four movies that continue a story or focus on the same characters.
• Music: A group of four musical compositions that are intended to be performed together as a cycle.

While the concept is straightforward, the term "tetralogy" is used less frequently than "trilogy" (a work in three parts) or "series" (a more general term for sequential works). The term "quadrilogy" is sometimes used as a synonym, though "tetralogy" remains more common in literary and artistic circles. Ancient Greek drama, especially in the context of dramatic competitions, often featured tetralogies comprising three tragedies and one satyr play.