Etymology of Soliloquy
The word soliloquy originates from the Latin term, soliloquium, which comprises two words: soli means “alone,” and loqui means “to speak. In other words, it originally meant to speak alone or to talk to oneself.
Meanings of Soliloquy
Literally, it is a type of speech delivered by a character alone on stage. The character reveals their inner emotions, thoughts or feelings through this speech.
Soliloquy in Grammar
- Singular : Use singular nouns and singular verbs when referring to a single instance.
- Example: “The soliloquy delivered by Hamlet in Act III is famous.”
- Multiple Soliloquies: Use plural nouns and plural verbs when discussing multiple instances.
- Example: “In Shakespeare’s plays, soliloquies reveal inner thoughts.”
Definition of Soliloquy
As a literary device, it refers to a speech a character gives when alone on the stage in a play. It is a way for a character to express their inner thoughts and feelings to the audience, often revealing motivations and emotions not revealed through other forms of expression.
These speeches are often longer than other forms of dialogue, while a lack of response from other characters shows their specific feature.
Types of Soliloquy
| Type | Explanation | Example in Literature |
| Introspective Soliloquy | Character reflects internally on their thoughts and feelings, revealing self-discovery. | “To be, or not to be: that is the question…” – Hamlet by William Shakespeare |
| Monologue Soliloquy | Lengthy speech expressing a character’s thoughts, ideas, and opinions. | “All the world’s a stage, and all the men and women merely players…” – As You Like It by William Shakespeare |
| Self-Addressed Soliloquy | Character speaks to themselves as if they were another person, revealing their innermost thoughts and motivations. | “Is this a dagger which I see before me, the handle toward my hand?” – Macbeth by William Shakespeare |
| Revelatory | Used to reveal important information or plot points to the audience. | “Now is the winter of our discontent made glorious summer…” – Richard III by William Shakespeare |
| Explanatory Soliloquy | Provides background information or context for the events of the play or story. | “Two households, both alike in dignity…” – Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare |
| Emotional | Expresses strong emotions such as anger, sorrow, or love. | “O Romeo, Romeo! Wherefore art thou Romeo?” – Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare |
| Confessional Soliloquy | Character confesses secrets or misdeeds, revealing guilt or shame. | “O, what a rogue and peasant slave am I!” – Hamlet by William Shakespeare |
| Interpreting | Character interprets events, giving their own opinion or analysis. | “Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears…” – Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare |
| Exclamatory Soliloquy | Character passionately exclaims emotions or feelings. | “O, pardon me, thou bleeding piece of earth…” – Julius Caesar by William Shakespeare |
| Decision-Making | Character weighs options and makes a decision, revealing their thought process and reasoning. | “To thine own self be true…” – Hamlet by William Shakespeare |
Literary Examples of Soliloquy
| Literary Work | Example | Explanation |
| Hamlet by William Shakespeare | Act III, Scene I: “To be, or not to be, that is the question.” | Hamlet’s famous soliloquy contemplates the value of life and the fear of death. He weighs the suffering of existence against the uncertainty of the afterlife. This introspective moment reflects Hamlet’s internal struggle and philosophical pondering. |
| Macbeth by William Shakespeare | Act V, Scene V: “Out, out, brief candle! Life’s but a walking shadow, a poor player.” | Here, Macbeth reflects on life’s transience and futility. He likens life to a fleeting shadow and a mere actor’s performance. The soliloquy captures Macbeth’s disillusionment and remorse as his ambition-driven actions lead to a hollow existence. |
| Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare | Act II, Scene II: “But, soft! what light through yonder window breaks?” | Romeo’s soliloquy reveals his awe at seeing Juliet for the first time. He compares her beauty to the brilliance of the sun, showcasing the intensity of his infatuation. The soliloquy emphasizes the romantic and passionate nature of Romeo’s feelings for Juliet. |
| Othello by William Shakespeare | Act III, Scene III: “Haply for I am black… Must be to loathe her.” | Othello’s soliloquy delves into his insecurities about his race and age, leading to suspicions of his wife’s infidelity. He wrestles with feelings of inadequacy and betrayal, ultimately deciding to cope by convincing himself to hate her. The soliloquy highlights Othello’s internal turmoil. |
| The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger | Chapter 3: “I’m the most terrific liar… It’s terrible.” (Holden Caulfield) | Holden Caulfield’s soliloquy reveals his tendency to lie habitually. He acknowledges his inclination to fabricate even trivial details and explains that this habit serves as a defense mechanism to shield his vulnerabilities. The soliloquy provides insight into Holden’s complex character. |
These examples and explanations illustrate how soliloquies offer deep insight into characters’ thoughts, emotions, and the themes of the literary works.
