Conflict

Definition

Conflict is a struggle between opposing forces that drives the narrative and shapes the characters' journeys. It is essential for creating tension and developing themes, revealing characters' motivations, and ultimately leading to resolution. Understanding conflict helps to illuminate the dynamics of plot, character development, and the underlying messages within a story.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be classified into several types, including internal vs. external and man vs. man, man vs. nature, and man vs. society.
2. In literature, conflict is crucial for character development, as it challenges characters to grow and change throughout the story.
3. The climax of a story often involves the peak of conflict, where tensions reach their highest point before the resolution begins.
4. Conflict not only propels the plot forward but also engages readers by creating emotional stakes and investment in the characters' journeys.
5. Themes in literature are often revealed through conflict, as the struggles faced by characters highlight broader societal issues or moral questions.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict contribute to character development in a story?
  • Internal conflict plays a significant role in character development by forcing characters to confront their own beliefs, fears, and desires. This struggle often leads to growth or change as they make choices that reveal their true selves. As readers witness these internal battles, they gain insight into the character's motivations and can better understand their actions throughout the narrative.
• Discuss how external conflict can shape the overall theme of a literary work.
  • External conflict significantly shapes the overall theme of a literary work by illustrating the struggles characters face against outside forces. For example, when characters battle societal norms or oppressive systems, it highlights themes of resistance, justice, or individuality. The resolution of these conflicts often reinforces or challenges these themes, providing deeper insights into the author's message about human experience.
• Evaluate the relationship between conflict and resolution in narrative structure and how they influence reader engagement.
  • The relationship between conflict and resolution is fundamental in narrative structure as they create a framework for storytelling. Conflict builds tension and captivates readers by immersing them in the characters' struggles, while resolution provides closure and satisfaction. This interplay influences reader engagement because unresolved conflicts can leave audiences feeling unsettled or curious about outcomes, whereas effective resolutions allow them to reflect on the themes explored through the characters' journeys.

Related terms

Internal Conflict:

A psychological struggle within a character, often involving emotions or decisions that challenge their beliefs or desires.

External Conflict: A struggle between a character and an outside force, which can include other characters, society, nature, or technology.

Resolution:

The part of the story where the conflict is resolved, leading to a conclusion and closure for the characters and plot.