Literary dialogue refers to the written conversation between characters in a story, play, or novel. It serves to reveal character traits, advance the plot, and create tension or humor. Through dialogue, readers gain insight into the relationships and emotions of the characters, making the narrative more engaging. Effective literary dialogue often mimics natural speech, incorporating elements like interruptions, slang, and varying speech patterns. Authors like William Shakespeare and Ernest Hemingway are known for their distinctive dialogue styles, which contribute significantly to their storytelling. Well-crafted dialogue can enhance the overall impact of a literary work.