Monologue vs. Soliloquy: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on October 16, 2023
A monologue is a long speech by one person in a conversation or performance, while a soliloquy is a character's spoken thoughts, alone on stage.
Key Differences
A monologue is a speech presented by a single character, most often to express their mental thoughts aloud. On the other hand, a soliloquy does not represent spoken dialogue, but rather a character's internal thoughts and feelings. The monologue can be directed towards other characters in the play, while a soliloquy is always a character talking to themselves, sharing their innermost thoughts with the audience.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Monologues are an integral part of both drama and prose fiction, where a character delivers a set speech to other characters who are on stage. Soliloquies, however, are typically found in drama, particularly in the works of Shakespeare, where characters articulate their innermost thoughts to the audience, unheard by the other characters.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Monologues serve various purposes, such as providing the audience with background information, revealing a character's thoughts, or serving as a dramatic highlight. Soliloquies, however, are used to reveal a character's most intimate thoughts and feelings, often serving to divulge secrets or intentions that are hidden from other characters.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Monologues can be found in a wide range of theatrical styles, from Greek tragedies to modern dramas. Soliloquies, while still used today, are more characteristic of classical drama, especially that of Elizabethan theatre, and are less common in contemporary plays.
Harlon Moss
Oct 16, 2023
Both monologues and soliloquies are dramatic devices that allow characters to express themselves directly to the audience. However, while monologues may address others on stage or the audience explicitly, soliloquies are always the character's inner thoughts, not spoken to other characters, even if they're physically present.
Janet White
Oct 16, 2023
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Comparison Chart
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Monologue and Soliloquy Definitions
Monologue
A dramatic scene where one actor speaks for an extended period.
Her powerful monologue in the final scene earned a standing ovation.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 16, 2023
Soliloquy
A form of monologue where a character speaks to the audience, unheard by other characters.
In a poignant soliloquy, he shared his plan for revenge with the audience.
Janet White
Oct 16, 2023
Monologue
A comedic routine delivered by a stand-up comedian.
His opening monologue had the audience roaring with laughter.
Janet White
Oct 16, 2023
Soliloquy
A dramatic device used to convey a character's innermost thoughts.
Her soliloquy revealed her turmoil and indecision, captivating the audience.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Monologue
A lengthy speech in a conversation, often monopolizing the conversation.
During dinner, he gave a monologue about his adventures abroad, and we couldn't get a word in.
Huma Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
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Soliloquy
A speech in which a character talks to themselves, revealing thoughts.
Hamlet's 'To be or not to be' soliloquy is Shakespeare's most famous.
Huma Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Monologue
A form of performance where a solo speaker tells a story.
The festival featured a monologue competition, and the stories ranged from hilarious to heart-wrenching.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 16, 2023
Soliloquy
A literary device that reveals a character's internal conflict.
The play's intense climax was her soliloquy about choosing between loyalty and love.
Janet White
Oct 16, 2023
Monologue
A literary device used for expressing a character's inner thoughts.
The villain's monologue revealed his motives but gave the hero time to escape.
Sara Rehman
Oct 16, 2023
Soliloquy
An act of speaking one's thoughts aloud when alone or regardless of any hearers.
Lost in thought, she delivered a soliloquy on the futility of her quest.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 16, 2023
Monologue
A lengthy, uninterrupted speech by a single character, as in a play or novel.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 25, 2016
Soliloquy
A monologue, especially in a play, that is delivered by a character who is alone or unaware of the presence of other characters and that reveals the thoughts or feelings of that character.
Sumera Saeed
Dec 25, 2016
FAQs
What is a soliloquy?
A soliloquy is a type of monologue where a character speaks their inner thoughts aloud, typically alone on stage.
Huma Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Are characters present during a soliloquy?
No, typically during a soliloquy, the character is alone, speaking their thoughts to the audience.
Janet White
Oct 16, 2023
Are other characters present during a monologue?
Yes, during a monologue, other characters are often on stage or part of the conversation.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Can a monologue be directed at the audience?
Yes, a monologue can be directed at the audience, known as a direct address.
Janet White
Oct 16, 2023
Are monologues used in comedy?
Yes, monologues are common in stand-up comedy and comedic plays or films.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Are monologues only in plays?
No, monologues can be in plays, movies, prose, or performed as stand-alone pieces.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
What's the purpose of a soliloquy?
Soliloquies reveal a character's innermost thoughts, feelings, and plans to the audience.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 16, 2023
Do soliloquies break the fourth wall?
While the character doesn't directly acknowledge the audience, soliloquies do share internal thoughts with them.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 16, 2023
Are soliloquies outdated in modern theater?
Not completely, but soliloquies are more characteristic of classical drama.
Harlon Moss
Oct 16, 2023
Can a monologue be silent?
No, a monologue involves speaking, but the character might be silent during a dramatic pause.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Is a soliloquy spoken dialogue?
A soliloquy is spoken aloud but represents the character's internal thoughts, not dialogue with others.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 16, 2023
Are all lengthy speeches monologues?
No, monologues are structured and intentional speeches, not just any lengthy speech.
Sara Rehman
Oct 16, 2023
Are soliloquies always serious?
Often, but not always. Soliloquies can also contain humor, irony, or sarcasm, depending on the character's personality.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
What's a monologue?
A monologue is an extended speech by one person to others in a play, conversation, or performance.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
What's the purpose of a monologue?
Monologues can reveal character, advance the plot, or express opinions and emotions.
Harlon Moss
Oct 16, 2023
Do monologues reveal personal secrets?
Monologues can reveal secrets, especially if the character trusts the listeners or wants to manipulate them.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Do soliloquies reveal secrets?
Often, yes. Soliloquies are a way for characters to confide their hidden thoughts or plans to the audience.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 16, 2023
Who hears a soliloquy?
Only the audience hears a soliloquy; it's the character's internal dialogue spoken aloud.
Janet White
Oct 16, 2023
How long is a typical monologue?
Monologues vary in length but are often several minutes long to maintain audience interest.
Aimie Carlson
Oct 16, 2023
How long is a typical soliloquy?
Soliloquies can range from brief speeches to several minutes, revealing significant character thoughts.
Harlon Moss
Oct 16, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
