Moral conflict

Definition

Moral conflict refers to the internal struggle that arises when an individual faces competing moral principles or values, leading to difficult decisions about right and wrong. This tension can emerge from the clash between personal beliefs and societal expectations or different cultural perspectives, often resulting in a crisis of conscience. In literature, such conflicts can reveal deeper insights into character motivations and societal norms, especially when traditional beliefs confront new ideologies.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In Chinua Achebe's works, characters often experience moral conflicts as they navigate the clash between traditional Igbo beliefs and the introduced Christian values.
2. Achebe illustrates how these moral conflicts can lead to personal turmoil and community discord, as individuals struggle to reconcile their heritage with new ideologies.
3. The concept of moral conflict is central to the theme of colonialism in Achebe's narratives, where characters face ethical dilemmas that reflect the broader cultural upheaval.
4. Achebe uses moral conflict to highlight the complexities of identity, as characters must choose between loyalty to their ancestral customs and the allure of new religious beliefs.
5. These moral struggles not only shape character development but also serve as a critique of colonialism's impact on traditional societies.

Review Questions

• How does Achebe use moral conflict to develop character arcs in his stories?
  • Achebe effectively uses moral conflict to deepen character development by placing them in situations where they must choose between traditional values and new influences. For instance, characters may find themselves torn between their ancestral duties and the expectations of a new faith. This internal struggle not only reveals their complexities but also showcases the broader implications of cultural change, making their journeys relatable and poignant.
• What role does moral conflict play in illustrating the effects of colonialism in Achebe's work?
  • Moral conflict serves as a critical lens through which Achebe examines the effects of colonialism. Characters often grapple with their identities as they face pressures from both traditional customs and Western ideologies. This tension highlights the disarray that colonial rule brings to indigenous cultures, showing how it disrupts established social structures and leads to ethical dilemmas that challenge long-held beliefs.
• Evaluate how moral conflicts in Achebe's narratives reflect broader societal issues faced during the colonial period.
  • The moral conflicts depicted in Achebe's narratives not only reveal individual struggles but also mirror larger societal issues encountered during the colonial period. As characters navigate their loyalties amidst conflicting values, these struggles illuminate themes such as identity, cultural preservation, and resistance against oppression. By portraying these conflicts, Achebe critiques the destructive impact of colonialism on African societies and emphasizes the need for cultural integrity and understanding in a rapidly changing world.

Related terms

Ethical Dilemma: A situation in which a person must choose between two conflicting moral principles, leading to challenging decisions.

Cultural Clash: The conflict that occurs when different cultural values and practices collide, often resulting in misunderstanding or tension.

Identity Crisis: A period of uncertainty and confusion in which an individual questions their sense of self and personal values, often influenced by external pressures.