Conflict

Definition

Conflict refers to the struggle or clash between opposing forces, whether they be internal or external. It serves as a driving force in narratives, compelling characters to face challenges, make decisions, and evolve throughout the story. Understanding conflict is essential as it shapes the plot and ultimately impacts character development and thematic depth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be categorized into different types, including man vs. man, man vs. self, man vs. society, and man vs. nature.
2. Internal conflict occurs within a character's mind, leading to personal struggles that can influence their actions and growth.
3. External conflict involves a character facing challenges from outside forces, such as other characters or societal expectations.
4. Conflict is essential for creating tension and interest in a story; without it, narratives can feel flat or unresolved.
5. The resolution of conflict often leads to character development, as characters learn from their experiences and may change their beliefs or behaviors.

Review Questions

• How does conflict drive character development in a narrative?
  • Conflict is crucial for character development because it forces characters to confront challenges that reveal their true nature. As they navigate through these struggles, whether internal or external, they often experience growth or change. This transformation can enhance their depth and relatability, making their journey more engaging for readers.
• Compare and contrast internal and external conflicts in narratives. How do they impact the plot differently?
  • Internal conflict involves a character grappling with their own thoughts and emotions, often leading to profound personal change. In contrast, external conflict arises from interactions with outside forces, such as other characters or societal norms. While internal conflicts can deepen a character's psychological complexity, external conflicts tend to drive the action of the plot forward by creating immediate tension and stakes.
• Evaluate the role of conflict in shaping themes within a narrative. Provide examples to support your analysis.
  • Conflict plays a pivotal role in shaping themes by highlighting the struggles between opposing forces that reflect broader societal issues or moral questions. For example, in a story about societal injustice (external conflict), characters may confront oppressive systems that challenge their beliefs about freedom and equality. Alternatively, a narrative focused on personal growth (internal conflict) may explore themes of identity and self-acceptance. Through these conflicts, authors can effectively convey complex themes that resonate with readers.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a narrative who faces the central conflict, driving the story forward through their actions and decisions.

Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and tension within the narrative.

Resolution: The conclusion of the conflict in a narrative, where loose ends are tied up and the outcomes of the characters' struggles are revealed.