Conflict

Definition

Conflict refers to a struggle or clash between opposing forces, ideas, or characters that creates tension and drives the narrative forward. In storytelling, especially in audio and video scriptwriting, conflict is essential for engaging the audience, as it provides obstacles for characters to overcome and contributes to character development, plot progression, and emotional resonance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be categorized into different types, including internal conflict (within a character) and external conflict (between characters or forces).
2. In audio and video scripts, conflict helps create dramatic tension, making the audience emotionally invested in the characters' journeys.
3. Effective use of conflict in storytelling often involves stakes that impact the characters' goals and motivations.
4. Conflict should escalate throughout the script to maintain audience interest and lead to a compelling climax.
5. The resolution of conflict is critical as it provides closure and insight into the characters' development and themes of the narrative.

Review Questions

• How does conflict enhance character development in audio and video storytelling?
  • Conflict enhances character development by presenting challenges that force characters to make decisions and evolve. As characters confront obstacles, their motivations, strengths, and weaknesses are revealed. This struggle not only engages the audience but also creates opportunities for growth, making characters more relatable and complex as they navigate their conflicts.
• In what ways can different types of conflict influence the pacing of an audio or video script?
  • Different types of conflict can significantly influence the pacing of an audio or video script by dictating how quickly or slowly the story unfolds. For example, internal conflicts may provide moments of introspection that slow down the pace, while external conflicts often create urgency and action that speed up the narrative. Balancing these conflicts allows for effective pacing that keeps the audience engaged while delivering an impactful story.
• Evaluate how the resolution of conflict can impact the overarching themes presented in an audio or video script.
  • The resolution of conflict can profoundly impact the overarching themes of an audio or video script by providing clarity on the story's message and emotional core. For instance, resolving a central conflict may reinforce themes of perseverance, sacrifice, or redemption, guiding the audience toward a deeper understanding of the narrative. Additionally, how conflicts are resolved can leave lasting impressions on viewers, shaping their interpretation of character arcs and thematic elements.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a story who faces challenges and conflicts that drive the plot.

Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and tension in the narrative.

Resolution: The conclusion of a conflict in a story, where tensions are resolved, and characters experience growth or change.