Conflict

Definition

Conflict refers to a struggle or clash between opposing forces, which is essential for driving the narrative forward in storytelling. In film, conflict often serves as the backbone of classical narrative structure, establishing stakes, developing characters, and engaging the audience. By creating tension and obstacles that characters must overcome, conflict helps to create a compelling storyline that resonates with viewers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict is typically categorized into various types, including internal (within a character) and external (between characters or forces).
2. In classical narrative structure, conflict often aligns with the three-act structure: setup, confrontation, and resolution.
3. The escalation of conflict is crucial in maintaining audience interest and emotional investment in the story.
4. Conflict can manifest through various elements such as dialogue, actions, and visual motifs, enhancing the storytelling experience.
5. A well-crafted conflict often leads to character growth and development as they navigate challenges and evolve throughout the narrative.

Review Questions

• How does conflict function within the classical narrative structure to enhance character development?
  • Conflict is central to character development in classical narrative structure because it forces characters to confront challenges and make choices that reveal their true nature. As protagonists face obstacles created by external or internal conflicts, they undergo transformation, growth, or decline. This process of navigating conflict provides depth to characters and allows the audience to connect with their struggles on an emotional level.
• Discuss how the relationship between protagonists and antagonists contributes to the overall conflict in a film narrative.
  • The relationship between protagonists and antagonists is crucial for establishing the primary conflict in a film. The antagonist's opposition creates tension and challenges that the protagonist must overcome, driving the plot forward. This dynamic not only fuels the central conflict but also shapes character arcs as protagonists often learn important lessons or undergo significant changes as they confront their adversaries.
• Evaluate the importance of resolution in relation to conflict within classical narrative structure and its impact on audience satisfaction.
  • Resolution plays a vital role in how conflict is perceived and experienced within classical narrative structure. A satisfying resolution ties up the various threads of conflict, providing closure for both characters and viewers. When conflicts are resolved meaningfully, it enhances audience engagement by offering a sense of completion and emotional payoff. Conversely, unresolved conflicts can lead to dissatisfaction, emphasizing the need for effective resolution to elevate the overall narrative experience.

Related terms

Protagonist:

The main character in a story who faces challenges and conflicts, driving the plot forward.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict within the narrative.

Resolution:

The part of a narrative where conflicts are resolved, leading to a conclusion or change in the characters' circumstances.