In drama, what does 'intonation' refer to?

Intonation refers to the variation in the pitch of the voice when speaking. This includes the rising and falling patterns that occur during speech, which can convey different meanings, emotions, and attitudes. For example, a rising intonation at the end of a sentence can indicate a question, while a falling intonation may suggest certainty or completion. Understanding and using intonation effectively is essential for character development and conveying the subtext in a performance. This element of vocal delivery can significantly enhance the emotional impact and clarity of communication in a drama setting. Other options like the speed, loudness, or clarity of speech focus on different aspects of vocal delivery but do not specifically relate to the nuances of pitch variation that define intonation.