Write an essay on the use of Soliloquies.

Ans.

Soliloquy is a dramatic device serving several very important functions which would be, otherwise, very difficult to perform. It is a discourse to one’s own self. It is an ‘aside. When the character soliloquies, even when other characters are also present (they may not be there), the purpose of the dramatist its to let the audience (or the readers of a play) know what is passing through that character’s mind while other characters remain ignorant about it. It is a kind of loud thinking.

In drama a “soliloquy” has following functions-

The Function of self-Revelation-

Its main function is to reveal the character’s intimate thoughts, his intentions and responses.

The Function of Imparting Information-

When the dramatist wishes to impart some information to the audience (or readers) alone this device is adopted and is very effective.

The Function of Furnishing Explanation-

It is also one of the functions of soliloquy to explain the motive or actions of the character through his loud thinking

The Function of Idealization-

It has been pointed out by Shakespearean critics and scholars that Shakespeare’s soliloquies invest it with an air of idealization. The soliloquies in The Merchant of Venice’ are lyrical and full of poetic imagery.

Thus the soliloquies besides performing the functions enumerated above help in the development of the plot and the harmonious delineation of and such add to the better appreciation and comprehension of the drama.