What does dialogue primarily serve in a narrative?

Dialogue primarily serves to reveal character thoughts and advance the plot. Through dialogue, characters express their feelings, motivations, and perspectives, giving readers insight into their inner lives and relationships. This interaction is crucial for character development, as it allows them to convey their personalities, conflicts, and growth over the course of the narrative.

Moreover, dialogue often drives the plot forward by creating tension, conflict, and resolution. Conversations between characters can introduce new information, highlight key themes, and prompt significant actions or decisions within the story, thereby keeping the narrative engaging and dynamic.

While other elements such as plot structure, setting details, and physical actions may be conveyed through dialogue, none are the primary focus compared to the role of dialogue in revealing character intentions and pushing the plot along.