Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

What characterizes a dramatic monologue?

1. A poem with multiple speakers

2. A speech revealing the speaker's character

3. A narrative told from a third-person perspective

4. A dialogue between two characters

The correct answer is: A speech revealing the speaker's character

A dramatic monologue is characterized by a speech in which a single speaker reveals their thoughts and feelings, typically while speaking to a silent audience. This format allows the speaker's character, motivations, and emotions to be fleshed out through their own words, providing insight into their inner life. The context in which the monologue takes place often sheds light on the speaker's situation or the relationships they have with others, enhancing the dramatic effect of the piece. In contrast, a poem with multiple speakers would involve various voices contributing to the narrative, thus lacking the focused perspective that defines a dramatic monologue. A narrative told from a third-person perspective would remove the intimacy of the speaker's direct voice and their personal revelations, instead providing an outside view of the action. Lastly, a dialogue between two characters goes against the essence of a dramatic monologue, as it requires the participation of another character, which detracts from the sole focus on the speaker and their individual expression.