Conflict

Definition

Conflict refers to the struggle or clash between opposing forces, ideas, or characters that drives the narrative forward in storytelling. It creates tension and engages the audience by highlighting differences, challenges, or disagreements that characters face, making it a crucial component in building drama and interest in non-fiction narratives.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters or forces), both of which are essential for driving the story.
2. In documentary storytelling, conflicts can emerge from real-life events and circumstances, adding authenticity and relatability to the narrative.
3. Conflict is often used to reveal deeper themes and messages within a documentary, allowing audiences to reflect on societal issues or personal struggles.
4. The resolution of conflict in a documentary often shapes how the audience perceives the overall message, making it a powerful tool for filmmakers.
5. Strong conflicts can create memorable moments that resonate with viewers, making the documentary more impactful and thought-provoking.

Review Questions

• How does conflict enhance the viewer's engagement with a documentary?
  • Conflict enhances viewer engagement by introducing stakes and challenges that characters must navigate, creating an emotional investment in their journey. When audiences witness struggles or tensions unfold, they become more connected to the characters and their experiences. This connection drives interest and encourages viewers to reflect on the themes presented, making the documentary more compelling.
• Discuss how different types of conflict can shape the narrative structure of a documentary.
  • Different types of conflict—whether internal or external—play significant roles in shaping a documentary's narrative structure. Internal conflict can provide depth to character development, illustrating personal struggles and growth. External conflict can drive plot progression, as it often involves interactions with other individuals or societal issues. The interplay between these conflicts helps to create a dynamic narrative arc that keeps viewers invested throughout.
• Evaluate the role of conflict in creating character arcs within documentaries and its impact on audience perception.
  • Conflict is crucial in creating character arcs within documentaries as it forces characters to confront challenges and evolve over time. As viewers witness how characters respond to conflicts, they gain insight into their motivations, values, and transformations. This evolution influences audience perception significantly; when characters overcome obstacles or change due to conflict, it fosters empathy and understanding, making the documentary's message resonate on a deeper level.

Related terms

Tension: The mental or emotional strain that arises from the uncertainty of an outcome, often heightened by conflict.

Resolution:

The part of a story where conflicts are resolved and the narrative reaches closure, often providing a sense of conclusion.

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