Advanced Placement (AP) English Literature Practice Exam

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What is a soliloquy in drama?

  1. A dialogue between two characters

  2. Lines revealing a character’s thoughts

  3. A monologue delivered to the audience's judgment

  4. A form of dramatic tension through conflict

The correct answer is: Lines revealing a character’s thoughts

A soliloquy in drama is characterized as lines that reveal a character’s thoughts. This theatrical device allows a character to express their innermost feelings and reflections, typically when they are alone on stage. It provides insight into the character's motivations, dilemmas, and emotional landscape, thereby deepening the audience's understanding of their internal struggles or plans. This method of communication differs from a dialogue, which involves an exchange between two or more characters. While a monologue might be directed toward an audience and serve various purposes, a soliloquy specifically focuses on a character's private thoughts, often unmediated by other characters' responses or interjections. Additionally, although dramatic tension can be created through conflict, this concept does not fully capture the essence of a soliloquy, which is more about introspection than confrontation.