Central Conflict

Definition

Central conflict refers to the main struggle or clash in a narrative that drives the story forward and creates tension. It often involves opposing forces, such as characters, ideas, or emotions, and is crucial in shaping the plot and character development. This conflict not only engages the audience but also highlights themes and motivates the protagonist's journey throughout the narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Central conflict is often categorized into different types, including internal (within a character) and external (between characters or forces).
2. In Classical Hollywood narratives, central conflict usually follows a structure that builds tension through rising action, climax, and resolution.
3. The clarity of central conflict helps viewers understand character motivations and the stakes involved in the story.
4. Effective storytelling often requires that the central conflict be relatable or understandable to engage the audience emotionally.
5. The resolution of the central conflict not only concludes the narrative arc but also often leaves a lasting impression on the audience regarding the themes presented.

Review Questions

• How does central conflict influence character development in narratives?
  • Central conflict plays a critical role in character development by forcing characters to confront their challenges, make choices, and grow throughout the story. As characters face obstacles presented by the conflict, they reveal their motivations, strengths, and weaknesses. This dynamic not only makes characters more relatable but also drives their arcs as they evolve in response to the central struggle.
• In what ways can understanding central conflict enhance your analysis of a film's narrative structure?
  • Understanding central conflict can enhance your analysis of a film's narrative structure by allowing you to identify how conflicts are introduced, developed, and resolved throughout the story. By examining how the central conflict drives the plot forward, you can gain insight into character motivations, thematic elements, and how tension is built over time. This comprehension aids in recognizing patterns common to Classical Hollywood narratives and understanding their emotional impact on audiences.
• Evaluate how different types of central conflicts can alter audience perceptions of a film's message.
  • Different types of central conflicts—whether internal or external—can significantly alter audience perceptions of a film's message by shaping how viewers relate to characters and their journeys. For example, an internal conflict may elicit empathy for a protagonist grappling with personal demons, while an external conflict might highlight societal issues or moral dilemmas. The nature of these conflicts influences how effectively the film communicates its themes and how audiences reflect on their own experiences in relation to the narrative.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a narrative who faces the central conflict and whose journey the audience follows.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and tension in the story.

Resolution: The part of a narrative where the central conflict is resolved, leading to a conclusion and bringing closure to the story.