Conflict

Definition

Conflict refers to a struggle or clash between opposing forces, ideas, or characters, often serving as the driving force of a narrative. It can manifest in various forms, including internal struggles within a character or external battles between characters, groups, or concepts. Understanding conflict is crucial as it shapes the characters’ motivations, drives the plot forward, and creates tension that engages readers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be categorized into different types, including man vs. man, man vs. self, man vs. society, and man vs. nature.
2. In creative writing, conflict is essential because it creates drama and interest, keeping readers engaged with the story.
3. Conflict is often linked to character development; how characters respond to conflict can reveal their true nature and growth.
4. Tension builds through conflict; as obstacles arise, stakes increase, leading to climactic moments that capture readers' attention.
5. Effective resolution of conflict can provide a satisfying ending that reinforces the story’s themes and messages.

Review Questions

• How does conflict serve as a driving force in a narrative?
  • Conflict serves as a driving force in a narrative by creating tension and challenges for the characters. It pushes the protagonist to confront obstacles, which leads to their development and progress throughout the story. The presence of conflict compels readers to invest emotionally in the outcome, making it a key element in shaping the plot and keeping readers engaged.
• Discuss the relationship between conflict and character development in storytelling.
  • Conflict plays a crucial role in character development as it tests characters' limits and reveals their true personalities. When faced with challenges or adversaries, characters must make choices that demonstrate their values, beliefs, and growth. This interaction between conflict and character development enriches the narrative by allowing readers to see how characters evolve in response to their struggles.
• Evaluate how different types of conflict can impact the overall theme of a story.
  • Different types of conflict can significantly impact the overall theme of a story by highlighting various human experiences and moral dilemmas. For instance, an internal conflict (man vs. self) might emphasize personal growth and self-discovery, while an external conflict (man vs. society) could critique social norms or injustices. By analyzing how these conflicts unfold, readers gain deeper insights into the themes being explored, making connections between character experiences and broader societal issues.

Related terms

Protagonist:

The main character in a story who faces challenges and conflicts, often representing the central struggle.

Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and driving the story’s tension.

Resolution:

The part of the story where conflicts are resolved, leading to a conclusion and often providing insight into the themes.