A monologue is a speech delivered by a single character in a play, film, or other performance. It allows the character to express their thoughts, feelings, or motivations directly to the audience or to another character. Monologues can reveal important aspects of a character's personality and are often used to advance the plot or provide insight into the character's internal struggles. In literature, monologues can also appear in poetry or prose, where a character reflects on their experiences or emotions. Famous examples include William Shakespeare's soliloquies in plays like Hamlet, where the character contemplates life and existence. Monologues are a powerful tool for storytelling and character development.