2. Origins
Technique can be seen in a lot of
ancient Greek dramas
Became popular as a form of poetry in
the Victorian era with the poet, Robert
Browning (Father of the Dramatic
Monologue)
3. Features
An audience is implied – We know
someone is listening, but the speaker
never comes right out and says it
There is no dialogue – A monologue
is not a conversation!
The poet is speaking through an
assumed voice – usually some sort of
fictional identity (i.e. a character)
4. Features (cont.)
The dramatic monologue stands alone
– the poet does not offer any direct
analysis or commentary
The audience is left to interpret the
character’s actions/motivations
5. Purpose
To give insight into the character’s
personality
To indicate to the reader the
character’s background or history
6. Purpose
To give insight into the character’s
personality
To indicate to the reader the
character’s background or history