Etymology of Monologue
The term “monologue” derives from the Greek word “monologos,” which is a compound of “monos,” meaning “alone,” and “logos,” meaning “speech” or “word.”
Its etymology reflects its fundamental meaning of a solitary speech or discourse, typically delivered by a single individual.
With time, the concept of monologue has evolved from its linguistic roots to encompass various forms of extended solo verbal expression, often employed in literature, theater, and everyday communication, where one person speaks at length to convey thoughts, feelings, or ideas without interruption.
Meanings of Monologue
| Aspect | Meanings |
| Solo Speech | A speech or discourse by one person, often expressing thoughts, emotions, or ideas. |
| Theatrical | A dramatic device in theater, revealing a character’s inner thoughts or motivations. |
| Literary Device | In literature, provides insight into character development and inner worlds. |
| Communication | In everyday conversation, one person dominates the dialogue without allowing responses. |
| Self-Reflection | Expressing thoughts aloud for self-examination and clarity. |
| Entertainment | Used in stand-up comedy and spoken word to engage and amuse an audience. |
| Exposition | In storytelling, conveys essential information or background details to the audience. |
| Artistic Expression | A means for artists to convey complex emotions, themes, or messages. |
Definition of Monologue
A monologue, as a literary device, is an extended and uninterrupted speech or soliloquy delivered by a single character within a work of literature. It serves as a powerful tool for authors to delve into the inner thoughts, emotions, and motivations of a character, often providing profound insights into their psyche and contributing to character development. Monologues are employed to convey a character’s reflections, conflicts, or revelations and can enhance the narrative by offering a deeper understanding of their perspective and the central themes of the work.
Common Examples of Monologue
- Lectures and Presentations: When a speaker delivers a presentation or lecture, they typically engage in a monologue, conveying information, ideas, or opinions to an audience without frequent interruptions.
- Storytelling: When someone shares a personal experience, anecdote, or narrative, they may engage in a monologue to captivate their listeners, providing details and context.
- Job Interviews: Candidates often give monologues during job interviews when asked about their qualifications, experiences, or skills.
- Political Speeches: Politicians frequently deliver monologues in the form of speeches, where they express their views, agendas, and policies to the public.
- Rants and Venting: In casual conversations or online discussions, individuals may go on monologues when expressing frustration, anger, or strong opinions.
- Teaching and Instruction: Educators use monologues to impart knowledge in classrooms, explaining concepts, theories, and lessons.
- Self-Talk: People engage in monologues during self-reflection or inner dialogue, talking to themselves to process thoughts, make decisions, or work through problems.
- Podcasts and Vlogs: Content creators often deliver monologues in their podcasts or video blogs, sharing their insights, experiences, and expertise with their audience.
- Radio Announcements: Radio hosts and announcers engage in monologues while providing news updates, weather reports, or commentary.
- Personal Monologues: Sometimes, individuals may unconsciously engage in monologues when they talk extensively about their interests, hobbies, or experiences without active participation from others in the conversation.
Shakespearean Monologue
| Reference | Extract | Explanation |
| Hamlet – “To be or not to be” | “To be or not to be, that is the question: / Whether ’tis nobler in the mind to suffer / The slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, / Or to take arms against a sea of troubles.” | Hamlet’s soliloquy reflects his contemplation of life and death, the nature of suffering, and the moral dilemma of existence. It’s one of Shakespeare’s most iconic monologues, exploring profound philosophical themes. |
| Macbeth – “Tomorrow, and tomorrow…” | “Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow, / Creeps in this petty pace from day to day, / To the last syllable of recorded time; / And all our yesterdays have lighted fools / The way to dusty death.” | Macbeth’s monologue expresses his despair and nihilism as he reflects on the insignificance of life. It’s a poignant reflection on the futility of human existence and the passage of time. |
| Romeo – “But, soft! what light…” | “But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks? / It is the east, and Juliet is the sun.” | Romeo’s monologue is a lyrical expression of his love for Juliet. It captures the moment of his first sighting of her and beautifully conveys the intensity of his emotions. |
| Juliet – “O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore…” | “O Romeo, Romeo! wherefore art thou Romeo? / Deny thy father and refuse thy name; / Or, if thou wilt not, be but sworn my love, / And I’ll no longer be a Capulet.” | Juliet’s monologue reveals her longing for Romeo and her willingness to defy family and social boundaries for their love. It’s a declaration of her passion and desire. |
| Iago – “I hate the Moor” | “I hate the Moor, / And it is thought abroad that ‘twixt my sheets / He has done my office. I know not if ‘t be true; / But I, for mere suspicion in that kind, / Will do as if for surety.” | Iago’s monologue reveals his malicious and manipulative nature. He harbors intense hatred for Othello and uses deception to manipulate those around him, setting the tone for the tragedy that unfolds. |
These Shakespearean monologues exemplify the depth and complexity of character emotions, themes, and storytelling that Shakespeare masterfully conveyed through the art of monologue.
Suggested Readings
- Bell, Kimberly. The Monologue Audition: A Practical Guide for Actors. Heinemann Drama, 2000.
- Bogart, Anne. A Director Prepares: Seven Essays on Art and Theatre. Routledge, 2001.
- Clurman, Harold. On Directing. Macmillan, 1972.
- Cohen, Robert. Acting Power: The 21st Century Edition. Routledge, 2017.
- Hagen, Uta. Respect for Acting. Wiley, 1973.
- Meisner, Sanford. Sanford Meisner on Acting. Vintage, 1987.
- Stanislavski, Konstantin. An Actor Prepares. Routledge, 1989.
- Wilson, Edwin. The Theater Experience. McGraw-Hill Education, 2017.