Monologuist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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monologuist

[mษ™หˆnษ’lษ™ษกษชst ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

theater performance

A monologist is a performer or writer who presents a monologue, which is a long speech delivered by one person. This art form is common in theater and can convey a character's thoughts and emotions or tell a story. Monologists often engage their audience by sharing personal experiences or opinions. They hold the stage alone, making their performance a unique and intimate experience for the viewers.

Synonyms

dramatic speaker, one-man show, solo performer.

Examples of usage

  • The monologist captivated the audience with her powerful delivery.
  • Many famous monologists have created iconic one-person shows.
  • He was recognized as a talented monologist at the comedy festival.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Performance Art

  • Monologues are key in theatrical performances, allowing actors to express inner thoughts and emotions.
  • Famous monologuists include actors like Robin Williams and Whoopi Goldberg, who brought personal stories to life.
  • Stand-up comedy often features monologuist styles, where comedians share their insights and humor.

Literature

  • Monologues are common in classic literature, serving as a device to reveal charactersโ€™ thoughts, such as in Shakespeare's plays.
  • Modern writers often use internal monologues to give readers insight into a characterโ€™s motivations or conflicts.
  • Some novels are structured around a single character's thoughts, leading to a deep exploration of their psyche.

Psychology

  • The act of speaking alone can aid in processing emotions, allowing for clearer thoughts.
  • Performance can be a therapeutic exercise, helping individuals express feelings they've kept inside.
  • Monologues and storytelling have been used in therapeutic settings to help patients explore their identities.

Pop Culture

  • Shows like 'The Moth' and 'StoryCorps' elevate the art of storytelling by featuring monologuists sharing true personal experiences.
  • Movies often include dramatic monologues, which have become iconic parts of film history, such as in 'The King's Speech.'
  • The rise of podcasts has created a new generation of monologuists sharing stories, insights, and expertise directly with listeners.

Origin of 'monologuist'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek 'monologos,' where 'mono' means 'one' and 'logos' means 'speech.'
  • It was popularized in theatre during the late 19th century, especially with the rise of solo performances.
  • Many languages have adopted similar terms to represent the idea of a single speaker.

The term 'monologist' comes from the Greek word 'monologos,' where 'mono-' means 'single' or 'one,' and 'logos' means 'speech' or 'word.' It was first used in English in the late 19th century to describe a solo performance art that focuses on speeches delivered by a single person. Over the years, monologues have become an essential component of theater, literature, and comedy. Renowned writers and performers, from Shakespeare to contemporary comedians, have utilized monologues to express deeper themes and engage audiences. The evolution of the monologist reflects changes in culture, with a growing emphasis on personal storytelling and connection with the audience.