The Inner Monologue

Worksheet Description

This worksheet guides students through an in-depth analysis of a soliloquy from a play. It prompts students to select a soliloquy or work with one that is assigned and directs them to record the title of the play, the first line of the soliloquy, the character who speaks it, and the soliloquy’s subject matter. Further, the worksheet asks students to identify the unique information revealed in the soliloquy that other characters in the play are not aware of. It also encourages learners to contemplate the significance of the soliloquy’s content being delivered in this form, as opposed to through regular dialogue.

The worksheet’s objective is to teach students about the dramatic and narrative importance of soliloquies in plays. It helps them understand how soliloquies can provide exclusive insight into a character’s thoughts and motivations that might not be evident through dialogue or action. This exercise also allows students to consider the impact of direct audience engagement through a character’s private thoughts. Furthermore, it fosters analytical thinking by having students reflect on the reasons why a playwright might choose to convey certain information to the audience in a solitary speech.