External Conflicts

Definition

External conflicts are struggles or clashes that occur between characters and forces outside themselves, such as other characters, society, or nature. These conflicts are crucial in storytelling as they drive the narrative forward and create tension that captivates the audience's attention. They can take various forms, including interpersonal disputes, societal challenges, or environmental obstacles, all of which can significantly influence character development and plot progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External conflicts can manifest in various ways, such as battles between protagonists and antagonists, societal expectations versus individual desires, or survival against natural disasters.
2. These conflicts are essential for establishing stakes in a story; they create tension that keeps the audience engaged and invested in the characters' journeys.
3. External conflicts often serve as catalysts for character growth; they force characters to confront their beliefs, values, and fears, ultimately leading to significant development.
4. Incorporating diverse external conflicts can enhance storytelling by providing multiple layers of challenge for characters, making the narrative more complex and relatable.
5. Effective resolution of external conflicts can lead to a satisfying conclusion in a narrative, highlighting themes of resilience, justice, or personal triumph.

Review Questions

• How do external conflicts contribute to the overall narrative structure of a story?
  • External conflicts play a vital role in shaping the narrative structure by providing the central challenges that characters must face. These conflicts often introduce key plot points and twists that propel the story forward. They also help establish relationships between characters and deepen audience investment in their outcomes. Without these struggles, the narrative would lack direction and excitement.
• In what ways can external conflicts enhance character development within a story?
  • External conflicts enhance character development by placing characters in challenging situations that require them to adapt, change, or confront their inner fears. These experiences push characters to make difficult choices that reveal their true nature and values. As they navigate these conflicts, audiences witness their growth and transformation, making their journey more compelling and relatable.
• Evaluate the significance of varying types of external conflicts in creating a rich narrative experience.
  • Varying types of external conflicts significantly enrich the narrative experience by introducing complexity and depth to the storyline. Different forms of conflict—such as man versus man, man versus society, or man versus nature—can create multiple layers of tension that reflect real-life struggles. This diversity not only keeps the audience engaged but also allows for exploration of different themes and moral dilemmas, making the story resonate on various levels with viewers.

Related terms

Internal Conflicts: Struggles that occur within a character's mind, often involving emotional or psychological challenges they must overcome.

Character Arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story, often influenced by external conflicts.

Plot Development: The process of structuring the events in a narrative, where external conflicts play a key role in shaping the storyline.