What term is used for spoken exchanges between characters in a literary work?

The term that refers specifically to spoken exchanges between characters in a literary work is dialogue. This is a vital component of storytelling, as dialogue helps to develop characters, convey plot points, and create tension or humor. Through dialogue, readers can gain insights into the relationships between characters and their thoughts or feelings in a more dynamic way than through narration alone.

Prose refers to written or spoken language in its ordinary form, without metrical structure, and can include narrative descriptions as well as dialogue. Monologue describes a long speech presented by a single character, not an exchange. A soliloquy is a type of monologue where a character speaks their thoughts aloud, typically while alone, giving the audience insight into their inner conflicts and feelings, rather than engaging with another character.