Conflict

Definition

Conflict refers to a struggle between opposing forces, often driving the narrative and emotional stakes in a story. It can manifest as internal struggles within a character or external disputes between characters, shaping the plot and developing themes. This concept is crucial for creating compelling drama and engaging audiences by creating tension and highlighting the stakes involved.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict is essential in shaping the plot; without it, there would be no story to tell.
2. There are typically two main types of conflict: internal, which occurs within a character, and external, which happens between characters or outside forces.
3. Character development is often driven by conflict, forcing characters to grow, change, or reveal their true selves through their reactions.
4. Conflict can reflect larger themes within a play, such as societal issues or moral dilemmas, making it resonate with audiences on multiple levels.
5. The resolution of conflict is critical as it provides emotional satisfaction for the audience and concludes character arcs.

Review Questions

• How does conflict serve to enhance character development within a story?
  • Conflict enhances character development by challenging characters to confront their fears, desires, and moral dilemmas. When faced with conflict, characters reveal their true nature through their decisions and actions. This struggle often leads to personal growth or change, which not only deepens the audience's understanding of the character but also makes the overall narrative more engaging.
• In what ways can internal conflict be just as compelling as external conflict in a theatrical piece?
  • Internal conflict can be just as compelling as external conflict because it delves deep into a character's psyche, showcasing their struggles with emotions or decisions. This type of conflict allows for rich storytelling that can evoke empathy from the audience, as they witness a character grapple with personal issues such as guilt, fear, or identity. The tension created by these internal battles can be just as dramatic and impactful as physical confrontations or clashes with other characters.
• Evaluate how different types of conflict can drive thematic exploration in a theatrical performance.
  • Different types of conflict—whether internal or external—serve as vehicles for thematic exploration by highlighting key issues within the narrative. For instance, a story featuring interpersonal conflict might delve into themes of loyalty and betrayal, while internal conflict could explore themes of identity or morality. By resolving these conflicts in various ways throughout the performance, playwrights can provide commentary on human nature and societal norms, inviting the audience to reflect on their own experiences and beliefs in relation to these themes.

Related terms

Dramatic Irony: A situation where the audience knows more about the events than the characters, creating tension and anticipation regarding the conflict.

Resolution: The part of the story where conflicts are resolved, providing closure to the narrative and determining character outcomes.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist, often embodying the primary conflict within a story.