Conflict

Definition

Conflict is a struggle or clash between opposing forces, ideas, or characters, which creates tension and drives the narrative forward. It can manifest in various forms, such as internal struggles within a character or external battles between different groups. Conflict is essential for creating drama and engaging the audience, as it highlights the stakes involved and challenges characters must overcome.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be categorized into various types: internal (within a character) and external (between characters or forces).
2. A well-developed conflict helps in character development by showcasing their strengths, weaknesses, and growth.
3. Conflict often involves a clear antagonist that opposes the protagonist, adding layers to the story and its themes.
4. The escalation of conflict usually leads to a climax, which is the turning point in the narrative where tensions peak.
5. In documentaries, real-life conflicts can serve as a powerful narrative element that reflects societal issues or personal struggles.

Review Questions

• How does conflict contribute to character development in narratives?
  • Conflict is pivotal in character development because it reveals how characters respond to challenges and obstacles. Through their actions and decisions during conflicts, audiences gain insight into their personalities, motivations, and growth. Characters often evolve as they navigate through their struggles, allowing viewers to connect emotionally and understand their journeys more deeply.
• Analyze the role of conflict in engaging an audience during a narrative documentary.
  • Conflict plays a crucial role in engaging an audience during a narrative documentary by introducing tension and stakes that captivate viewers. As real-life conflicts unfold, audiences are drawn into the story, wanting to see how situations develop and resolve. This engagement not only enhances emotional investment but also encourages viewers to reflect on broader societal issues represented by these conflicts.
• Evaluate how different types of conflict can affect storytelling choices in documentaries.
  • Different types of conflict, such as personal struggles or societal clashes, significantly influence storytelling choices in documentaries. When filmmakers focus on internal conflicts of individuals, it allows for a more intimate exploration of human emotions and experiences. Conversely, external conflicts can highlight larger social issues, prompting discussions about justice, inequality, or cultural differences. By choosing which type of conflict to emphasize, filmmakers can shape the narrative's tone, focus, and ultimately its impact on the audience.

Related terms

Tension: The mental or emotional strain resulting from conflict, which keeps the audience engaged and invested in the outcome.

Resolution: The conclusion of the conflict where the issues are resolved, providing closure to the narrative.

Protagonist: The main character in a story who faces conflict and undergoes change throughout the narrative.