Obstacles

Definition

Obstacles refer to the challenges or barriers that characters face in a narrative, often serving to create conflict and drive the story forward. These can be physical, emotional, or situational, and they play a crucial role in character development by revealing their strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. Overcoming obstacles can lead to growth, transformation, or deeper understanding of oneself and others.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Obstacles are essential for character development as they provide opportunities for characters to evolve and showcase their resilience.
2. Characters may encounter internal obstacles, such as fears or insecurities, in addition to external ones like societal norms or physical barriers.
3. The way a character responds to obstacles can reveal their true nature and values, making them relatable to the audience.
4. Not all obstacles need to be overcome; some may lead to failure or compromise, which can be equally impactful for character growth.
5. The journey of facing obstacles often highlights themes of perseverance, identity, and the complexity of human experience.

Review Questions

• How do obstacles contribute to a character's development in a narrative?
  • Obstacles play a significant role in character development by providing challenges that characters must confront. As characters navigate these hurdles, their responses reveal their personalities, values, and growth. The struggle against obstacles allows for moments of vulnerability and strength, showcasing how characters evolve over time and offering insight into their motivations.
• Discuss the different types of obstacles characters might face and their impact on the plot.
  • Characters can face various types of obstacles including physical challenges like enemies or environmental dangers, emotional struggles such as fears or insecurities, and societal pressures that influence their choices. Each type of obstacle creates tension and conflict within the plot, driving the story forward. The resolution of these obstacles often leads to key turning points in the narrative that shape the characters' journeys.
• Evaluate how overcoming or failing to overcome an obstacle can shape a character's arc and thematic elements within a story.
  • The process of overcoming an obstacle can lead to significant character growth and transformation, reinforcing themes of resilience and determination. Conversely, failing to overcome an obstacle can result in deeper insights into a character’s flaws or limitations, adding complexity to their arc. Both scenarios offer valuable lessons about human experience, highlighting the importance of struggle in shaping identity and narrative depth.

Related terms

Conflict: The struggle between opposing forces in a narrative that creates tension and propels the plot.

Character Arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character as they confront challenges throughout the story.

Motivation: The driving force behind a character's actions and decisions, often influenced by their desires and obstacles they face.