Conflict and resolution

Definition

Conflict and resolution refer to the central struggle or clash between opposing forces in a narrative, which drives the story forward and creates tension. The resolution is the outcome of this conflict, where the tension is resolved, leading to a sense of closure or new beginnings. Together, these elements are essential in shaping the narrative structure, influencing character development, and engaging the audience emotionally.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be external, involving characters against outside forces, or internal, where characters grapple with their own emotions and decisions.
2. A well-crafted resolution ties up loose ends and provides insight into the characters' journeys, enhancing the audience's emotional investment.
3. In narratives, conflict often stems from desires, fears, or values that clash between characters or within a character themselves.
4. Effective conflict and resolution contribute to themes of growth, transformation, and understanding within a story.
5. The pacing of conflict and resolution affects the overall rhythm of a narrative, impacting how suspense and engagement are maintained throughout.

Review Questions

• How does conflict serve as a driving force in narratives, and what role does it play in character development?
  • Conflict serves as the driving force in narratives by creating tension that propels the story forward. It challenges characters to confront their fears, desires, and moral dilemmas, often leading to significant growth or change. As characters navigate conflicts, their decisions reveal their true selves, deepening audience engagement and making their eventual resolutions more impactful.
• In what ways can different types of conflict influence the resolution of a story?
  • Different types of conflict can greatly influence how a story resolves. For instance, external conflicts involving antagonists might lead to action-packed resolutions where characters confront one another directly. In contrast, internal conflicts may result in introspective resolutions that emphasize personal growth or transformation. The nature of the conflict shapes not just the outcome but also how satisfying or meaningful that resolution feels to the audience.
• Evaluate how effective conflict and resolution contribute to the overall theme of a narrative and its emotional resonance with the audience.
  • Effective conflict and resolution are crucial in contributing to the overall theme of a narrative as they highlight key ideas about human experience, such as struggle, redemption, or understanding. By presenting relatable conflicts that resonate emotionally with audiences, stories can evoke empathy and provoke thought about broader societal issues. When resolved meaningfully, these conflicts allow for catharsis and reflection, leaving a lasting impact on viewers or readers as they contemplate the lessons learned through the characters' journeys.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a story who faces conflict and undergoes growth or change as a result.

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

Climax: The turning point in a narrative where the main conflict reaches its highest intensity, leading to the resolution.