Which term describes a speech given by a character alone on stage?

The term that best describes a speech given by a character alone on stage is "soliloquy." A soliloquy is a dramatic device used predominantly in plays, where a character expresses their inner thoughts and feelings to the audience, often while alone. This technique allows the audience to gain insight into the character's motivations and emotions, creating a deeper understanding of their internal conflict. The key aspect of a soliloquy is the character's solitude, emphasizing their personal reflections and providing an intimate glimpse into their psyche.

In contrast, a monologue is typically a longer speech given by a character, but it doesn’t necessarily have to occur when they are alone on stage or reflect their inner thoughts in the same way a soliloquy does. Dialogue involves conversation between two or more characters, therefore not fitting the description of a speech given by a single character. An aside is a brief remark made by a character to the audience that other characters on stage do not hear, which is different from the longer, reflective nature of a soliloquy.