In a dramatic monologue, a single speaker addresses a silent listener, revealing their thoughts, feelings, and motivations. The speaker's words offer insights into their character and often unveil a crucial moment or event in their life.
Robert Browning was a master of the dramatic monologue, famous for works like "My Last Duchess," "The Bishop Orders His Tomb at Saint Praxed's Church," and "Andrea del Sarto."
Here's a breakdown of key features:
* Single Speaker: Only one character speaks throughout the entire poem.
* Silent Listener: The speaker addresses someone who remains silent and unrevealed.
* Revealing Dialogue: The speaker's words offer insights into their character, motivations, and the situation at hand.
* Dramatic Moment: Often, the monologue focuses on a critical event or turning point in the speaker's life.
If you're interested in exploring more dramatic monologues, you can check out the works of other prominent poets like Alfred Tennyson, Elizabeth Barrett Browning, and T.S. Eliot, who also utilized this powerful poetic form.