In the context of a fugue, what is a passage in which neither the subject nor the answer is present called?

In the context of a fugue, a passage where neither the subject nor the answer is present is referred to as an episode. An episode serves as a contrasting section within the fugue, allowing for exploration of other musical ideas and themes while still maintaining the overall tonal and thematic coherence of the piece. This section often connects different appearances of the subject and provides variety and development in the overall structure of the fugue.

The term episode is particularly significant because it highlights the structure of the fugue, which is characterized by the interplay of the main themes (the subject and the answer) and these contrasting sections. The effective use of episodes can enhance the complexity and texture of the composition, creating a more engaging listening experience without relying solely on the main themes.