Internal conflict

Definition

Internal conflict refers to the psychological struggle within a character, often involving opposing desires, beliefs, or emotions. This type of conflict is essential for character development and can lead to significant changes in a character's journey. It often drives the plot forward by forcing characters to confront their fears and make critical decisions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflict can manifest in various forms, including moral dilemmas, emotional struggles, or conflicting desires that shape a character's actions.
2. This type of conflict is crucial for creating depth in characters, as it allows readers to relate to their struggles and understand their complexities.
3. Authors often use internal conflict to enhance themes of self-discovery, personal growth, or the consequences of choices made by the characters.
4. In creative writing, depicting internal conflict effectively can create tension and suspense, engaging readers and keeping them invested in the story.
5. Characters who overcome their internal conflicts often emerge transformed, which can lead to satisfying resolutions or powerful climaxes in narratives.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict contribute to character development in literature?
  • Internal conflict is a key driver of character development as it forces characters to confront their fears and make choices that reveal their true selves. As characters grapple with their inner struggles, readers gain insight into their motivations and can relate to their journeys. This struggle often leads to personal growth or transformation, making characters more complex and engaging.
• In what ways can an author use internal conflict to enhance the themes of a story?
  • An author can use internal conflict to explore themes such as identity, morality, and the consequences of choices. By showcasing a character's psychological struggles, the narrative delves deeper into these themes, allowing readers to reflect on their own experiences. For example, a character torn between duty and desire can illuminate the theme of sacrifice versus self-fulfillment, enriching the overall story.
• Evaluate how the portrayal of internal conflict can affect the reader's engagement with a narrative.
  • The portrayal of internal conflict significantly impacts reader engagement by creating emotional resonance and relatability. When readers witness a character's struggles, they may empathize with their challenges and become invested in their journey. This connection can deepen their understanding of the narrative's themes and encourage reflection on similar struggles in their own lives. Ultimately, well-crafted internal conflict can elevate a story from mere entertainment to a meaningful exploration of the human experience.

Related terms

characterization:

The process by which an author reveals the personality and traits of a character, allowing readers to understand their motivations and conflicts.

theme:

The central idea or message in a literary work, often explored through characters' internal conflicts and their resolutions.

motivation:

The reasons behind a character's actions or decisions, often influenced by their internal struggles and desires.