Internal Conflict

Definition

Internal conflict refers to the psychological struggle within a character, often arising from competing desires, beliefs, or emotions. This type of conflict is crucial for creating depth in characters and driving the narrative forward, as it often influences a character's decisions and actions throughout the story.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflict often serves as a catalyst for character development, pushing protagonists to confront their fears or desires.
2. It can manifest as dilemmas that challenge a character's values, such as loyalty versus ambition or love versus duty.
3. This type of conflict can create tension and suspense, engaging the audience as they witness the character's struggles and transformations.
4. Effective internal conflict can enhance emotional resonance, making audiences more invested in a character's journey.
5. In many stories, resolving internal conflict can lead to significant plot turning points, often resulting in a climax where the character must make a crucial decision.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict contribute to the development of memorable protagonists and antagonists?
  • Internal conflict adds layers to both protagonists and antagonists by showcasing their struggles, vulnerabilities, and motivations. For protagonists, it creates opportunities for growth as they face and overcome their inner demons. Antagonists can be made more complex when their motivations stem from their own internal battles, making them more relatable and interesting. By exploring these conflicts, writers can create multi-dimensional characters that resonate with audiences.
• In what ways does internal conflict enhance scene structure and purpose within a narrative?
  • Internal conflict enhances scene structure by providing the emotional stakes that drive characters' actions within each scene. When a character grapples with their internal struggles, it influences their choices and interactions with others, creating tension and propelling the narrative forward. Each scene can serve to either escalate or resolve these conflicts, keeping the audience engaged and invested in the outcome. This use of internal conflict ensures that every scene serves a purpose in developing both character and plot.
• Evaluate the impact of effectively portraying internal conflict on storytelling techniques and audience engagement.
  • Effectively portraying internal conflict significantly enhances storytelling by deepening character arcs and providing rich thematic material. When audiences witness a character's inner turmoil, it fosters empathy and connection, making them more invested in the narrative. Additionally, this emotional depth allows for creative storytelling techniques, such as flashbacks or voiceovers, that can illustrate the character's past experiences or thought processes. Ultimately, when done well, internal conflict elevates the overall narrative by creating a more immersive and compelling experience for viewers.

Related terms

Character Arc:

The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story, typically influenced by their internal conflicts.

Motivation: The driving force behind a character's actions, often shaped by their internal struggles and desires.

Theme:

The underlying message or central idea explored in a story, frequently revealed through characters' internal conflicts and resolutions.