What is a speech made by a character alone on stage called?

A speech made by a character alone on stage is referred to as a soliloquy. This dramatic device allows the character to express their thoughts and feelings directly to the audience, providing insight into their internal conflicts and motivations. Soliloquies are commonly found in classical theatre, notably in the works of William Shakespeare, where characters often reveal their innermost thoughts and dilemmas during these moments of solitude.

In contrast, a monologue involves a long speech by one character, but it may occur in the presence of others, and it doesn't require the character to be alone on stage. Dialogue refers to conversations between two or more characters, while an aside is a brief remark that a character makes directly to the audience, usually meant to be heard only by them and not by other characters on stage. Understanding these distinctions enhances one’s appreciation of character development and dramatic technique in theatre.