Literary Terms

Soliloquy: Definition and Examples

Published March 23, 2025 · 4 views

Soliloquy is an important term in literary studies. This page gives a clear definition, an example and tips on how to use it in essays.

Definition

A speech in which a character speaks thoughts aloud, alone on stage.

Example

Hamlet's To be, or not to be

How to Write About Soliloquy

  • Identify where soliloquy appears in the text.
  • Quote the exact words.
  • Explain the effect on the reader and link it to the writer's purpose.

See also: Literary Devices: Metaphor, Simile, Irony and More.