Internal struggles

Definition

Internal struggles refer to the emotional and psychological conflicts that a character faces within themselves. These struggles often manifest as dilemmas, doubts, or conflicting desires that drive character development and influence decision-making throughout a story. The complexity of internal struggles can greatly affect character likability, as audiences tend to resonate with characters who exhibit vulnerability and depth in their emotional journeys.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal struggles help to create relatable characters by showcasing their vulnerabilities and flaws, making them more likable to audiences.
2. These struggles can take many forms, such as moral dilemmas, fear of failure, or conflicting loyalties, which deepen character complexity.
3. Characters who openly confront and resolve their internal struggles often experience significant growth, enhancing their likability.
4. Effective storytelling often emphasizes the resolution of internal struggles, leading to catharsis for both the character and the audience.
5. Internal struggles can serve as a catalyst for character decisions, shaping their relationships and actions throughout the narrative.

Review Questions

• How do internal struggles contribute to character likability in storytelling?
  • Internal struggles contribute to character likability by making characters more relatable and human. When audiences see characters facing real emotional conflicts or dilemmas, it evokes empathy and connection. This vulnerability allows viewers to engage with the character's journey on a deeper level, rooting for them as they navigate their challenges and ultimately grow from these experiences.
• In what ways can unresolved internal struggles impact a character's relationships with others in the story?
  • Unresolved internal struggles can create barriers in a character's relationships, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, or isolation. For example, if a character is torn between loyalty to a friend and their own moral beliefs, this internal conflict may cause them to act defensively or withdraw from social interactions. These dynamics not only add layers to the character but also influence how other characters perceive and respond to them, thereby enriching the narrative.
• Evaluate how the resolution of internal struggles can enhance a character arc and overall story impact.
  • The resolution of internal struggles is often pivotal for a compelling character arc, as it signifies growth and transformation. When characters confront and overcome their inner conflicts, it not only propels their personal development but also resonates with audiences on an emotional level. This resolution can lead to satisfying conclusions that tie together various narrative threads, ultimately reinforcing themes of redemption, courage, or self-discovery in the broader story context.

Related terms

Character arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story, often resulting from their internal struggles.

Conflict:

The central tension in a narrative that drives the plot forward, which can be external (between characters) or internal (within a character).

Motivation:

The reasons or driving forces behind a character's actions, often intertwined with their internal struggles.