Monody is a type of vocal music that features a single melodic line, often accompanied by simple harmonies. This style emphasizes the expression of emotion and is typically used in solo performances. Monody emerged during the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods, marking a shift from the complex polyphonic textures of earlier music. The term is often associated with the works of composers like Claudio Monteverdi, who utilized monodic techniques to enhance the dramatic quality of their music. Monody laid the groundwork for the development of opera and other forms of solo vocal music, influencing the evolution of Western classical music.