In poetry, what is a dramatic monologue?

• A. A two-person dialogue written in verse
• B. A speech delivered by a character that reveals their personality
• C. A narrative poem that skips between time periods
• D. A collective speech where multiple characters are involved

Answer: (B)

A dramatic monologue is a distinct poetic form in which a single character speaks to a silent listener, typically revealing their thoughts, feelings, and personality through the speech. This form provides insight into the character’s inner life and motivations, allowing the reader to engage deeply with the character’s perspective. It is not simply a dialogue or interaction between multiple characters; instead, the focus is solely on the speaker's voice and their personal expression. This format can effectively expose the character's emotional state and nuances, contributing to the overall thematic depth of the poem.

In contrast, a two-person dialogue in verse would involve multiple speakers and interactions, which does not align with the singular focus of a dramatic monologue. A narrative poem that skips between time periods would engage in storytelling across different times rather than character introspection. Similarly, a collective speech involving multiple characters would detract from the individualized voice that is central to a dramatic monologue. Thus, the characteristics inherent in option B align precisely with the essence of what a dramatic monologue entails.