Internal conflicts

Definition

Internal conflicts refer to the psychological struggles that characters face within themselves, often marked by competing desires, fears, or moral dilemmas. These conflicts are crucial in shaping characters' development and can influence their decisions, actions, and overall journey throughout the narrative. In epic poetry, particularly in the works of Homer and Virgil, internal conflicts highlight the evolving concept of heroism as heroes grapple with their identities and responsibilities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflicts in epic poetry often reflect the struggle between personal desires and societal expectations, showcasing how heroes are shaped by both inner turmoil and external pressures.
2. These conflicts can lead to pivotal moments in the narrative, where a hero's choice reveals their true character and influences their heroic journey.
3. In works like 'The Iliad' and 'The Aeneid', characters like Achilles and Aeneas experience significant internal conflicts that drive their actions and decisions throughout the story.
4. The resolution of internal conflicts often signifies a turning point for characters, marking their growth or transformation as they reconcile their desires with their duties.
5. Epic poetry illustrates that true heroism involves not just physical prowess but also the ability to confront and overcome one's internal struggles.

Review Questions

• How do internal conflicts contribute to character development in epic poetry?
  • Internal conflicts play a crucial role in character development by exposing the psychological struggles that characters face. For instance, Achilles grapples with his rage and sense of honor throughout 'The Iliad,' which ultimately shapes his decisions and relationships. This struggle highlights how personal dilemmas can reveal deeper aspects of a hero's identity, making them more relatable and complex.
• In what ways do the internal conflicts of characters like Aeneas reflect the evolving concept of heroism in epic poetry?
  • Aeneas's internal conflicts illustrate the shift from traditional notions of heroism based solely on physical strength to a more nuanced understanding that includes emotional resilience and moral responsibility. His struggles with duty versus desire show that true heroism involves sacrifice and the ability to act for the greater good, even when faced with personal loss or hardship. This evolution demonstrates how heroes in epic poetry become symbols of not just bravery but also ethical leadership.
• Evaluate the significance of internal conflicts in shaping the narrative arcs of epic poetry and their impact on themes of heroism.
  • Internal conflicts significantly shape the narrative arcs in epic poetry by driving character motivations and plot developments. For example, the tension between personal desires and communal obligations affects how characters respond to challenges and crises. These conflicts enhance themes of heroism by illustrating that real courage lies not just in physical feats but also in confronting one's fears and making difficult choices. The outcomes of these struggles often serve as pivotal lessons on what it means to be a true hero.

Related terms

Hamartia: A tragic flaw or error in judgment that leads to the downfall of a character, often seen in the heroes of epic poetry.

Catharsis: The emotional release or purification experienced by the audience through the suffering of the characters, often resulting from their internal conflicts.

Moral Dilemma: A situation in which a character must choose between two conflicting moral principles, often leading to significant internal conflict.