A soliloquy is a dramatic device used in theater where a character speaks their thoughts aloud, typically while alone on stage. This technique allows the audience to gain insight into the character's inner feelings, motivations, and conflicts. It is often used in plays to reveal a character's true emotions and intentions without the influence of other characters.
One of the most famous examples of a soliloquy is Hamlet's "To be, or not to be" speech in William Shakespeare's play Hamlet. In this moment, the character contemplates life and death, providing a deep exploration of his existential thoughts. Soliloquies are essential for character development and enhancing the emotional depth of a narrative.