Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
soliloquy
Noun
/səˈlɪl.ə.kwi/
Definition
A soliloquy is a speech delivered by a character while alone on stage, revealing their inner thoughts and feelings to the audience.
Examples
- In Shakespeare’s plays, the soliloquy is a powerful literary device used to express a character’s internal conflicts.
- Hamlet’s ‘To be or not to be’ is one of the most famous soliloquies in literature.
- The actor delivered a heartfelt soliloquy that captivated the audience.
Meaning
The term comes from the Latin ‘soliloquium,’ which means ‘talking to oneself.’ It is often used in drama to provide insight into a character’s thoughts and motivations.
Synonyms
- Monologue
- Tirade
- Address
- Reflection
