Obstacles

Definition

Obstacles are challenges or barriers that characters face throughout a narrative, which can hinder their goals and development. These hurdles are essential in creating tension and conflict, pushing characters to grow, change, or reveal their true selves as they navigate through adversity. The presence of obstacles is crucial for character development, as it shapes their journey and contributes to their overall arc.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Obstacles can be external, such as physical barriers or antagonistic characters, or internal, like fears and insecurities that challenge a character's resolve.
2. Characters often experience growth and transformation as they confront and overcome obstacles, making them more relatable and dynamic.
3. Obstacles help establish stakes in the story, keeping the audience engaged by highlighting what is at risk for the characters.
4. Effective storytelling uses obstacles to create a sense of pacing; overcoming smaller challenges can lead to larger conflicts that propel the plot forward.
5. Not all obstacles need to be resolved for characters; sometimes, facing them leads to deeper understanding or acceptance rather than clear victory.

Review Questions

• How do obstacles contribute to a character's growth throughout a narrative?
  • Obstacles play a vital role in character development by presenting challenges that force characters to confront their fears, make difficult choices, and evolve. As characters navigate through these hurdles, they learn valuable lessons about themselves and their capabilities. This growth often leads to significant changes in their behavior and mindset by the end of the story.
• In what ways can different types of obstacles influence the pacing and tension in a narrative?
  • Different types of obstacles can significantly affect the pacing and tension within a story. External obstacles may create immediate conflict that heightens suspense, while internal obstacles can lead to introspective moments that slow down the narrative but deepen character exploration. Balancing these elements allows writers to maintain engagement while building toward climactic moments.
• Evaluate how obstacles shape not just individual character arcs but also the overall narrative structure.
  • Obstacles are integral to both individual character arcs and the overall narrative structure, serving as catalysts for plot progression. Each obstacle faced by characters influences their decisions, relationships, and ultimately their transformations. The cumulative effect of these challenges creates a rich tapestry of conflict and resolution that drives the story forward, ensuring that the narrative remains compelling and cohesive.

Related terms

Conflict: A struggle between opposing forces that drives the narrative forward, often creating tension and drama.

Character Arc: The transformation or growth a character undergoes throughout the story, typically influenced by the obstacles they face.

Motivation: The internal or external forces that drive a character to pursue their goals, often challenged by the obstacles in their path.