Final answer:
A soliloquy is used in drama for a character to openly express their inner thoughts and emotions to the audience while alone on stage, offering deep insight into the character's psyche and influencing the audience's understanding of the plot and character development.
Step-by-step explanation:
Purpose of a Soliloquy
The purpose of a soliloquy in drama is to allow a character to speak directly to the audience, revealing their inner thoughts, feelings, and motivations without the presence of other characters. This dramatic device is used to give the audience insight into a character's mind, helping to develop deeper characterisation and to advance the plot. Unlike a monologue, which may be directed towards other characters on stage, a soliloquy is always delivered when the character is alone, ensuring that the thoughts expressed are candid and uncensored by the reactions or presence of others.
In plays, dialogue consists of the words characters speak to each other, but a soliloquy is distinct in that it breaks away from interactions to offer a personal reflection. Playwrights like William Shakespeare frequently used soliloquies to great effect, allowing characters such as Hamlet to communicate directly with the audience, establishing a more intimate connection and understanding of the character's psychological landscape. It is through soliloquies that the audience gains a privileged view of the characters' internal conflicts and philosophical musings, making it a powerful tool for storytelling in theater.