What is the meaning of term soliloquy?

A soliloquy is a speech delivered by a single character in a play, while alone on stage. It's a direct address to the audience, revealing the character's innermost thoughts, feelings, and motivations.

Here are some key characteristics of a soliloquy:

* Alone on stage: The character is usually alone, giving the impression of speaking their true thoughts without fear of judgment.

* Revealing thoughts and feelings: The speech often reveals the character's inner turmoil, their plans, their fears, or their regrets.

* Direct address to the audience: The character speaks directly to the audience, but often as if they were talking to themselves.

* Often dramatic and emotional: Soliloquies are often used to create heightened dramatic moments, highlighting the emotional intensity of a character's situation.

Examples of soliloquies:

* Hamlet's "To be or not to be" soliloquy: This famous speech reveals Hamlet's deep contemplation on life and death.

* Lady Macbeth's "Out, damned spot!" soliloquy: This reveals Lady Macbeth's guilt and despair after murdering King Duncan.

Soliloquies are a powerful dramatic tool, giving the audience a window into the mind of a character and deepening our understanding of their inner world.