Obstacles

Definition

Obstacles are challenges or barriers that characters face in a narrative, often serving to drive the plot forward and develop character depth. They can be external, such as antagonists or societal pressures, or internal, like personal fears and doubts. Overcoming obstacles is crucial for character growth and can significantly impact their relationships with supporting characters and their long-term development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Obstacles are essential for creating tension and keeping the audience engaged in the story.
2. They can lead to significant character decisions that reveal deeper motivations and fears.
3. The resolution of obstacles often marks turning points in a character's journey, impacting their relationships with others.
4. In long arcs, obstacles can evolve, representing new challenges as the character grows and changes over time.
5. Supporting characters often emerge as allies or adversaries in overcoming obstacles, enriching the narrative and character dynamics.

Review Questions

• How do obstacles contribute to the development of supporting characters in a narrative?
  • Obstacles provide supporting characters with opportunities to reveal their true nature and motivations. For instance, when they assist the protagonist in overcoming challenges, it can highlight their loyalty or personal stakes in the outcome. Alternatively, if they become adversarial due to conflicting interests or values, it showcases their complexities and adds depth to their relationship with the main character.
• Discuss how internal versus external obstacles affect a character's development over a long arc.
  • Internal obstacles often delve into a character's psyche, revealing fears or insecurities that must be addressed for growth. External obstacles can push characters into action, forcing them to confront outside challenges that test their values. Over time, how a character navigates these differing types of obstacles can significantly shape their arc, leading to moments of realization and transformation.
• Evaluate the role of obstacles in shaping the overall narrative structure and themes across a character's long-term journey.
  • Obstacles play a pivotal role in structuring the narrative by providing key plot points that guide the character's journey. Each obstacle introduces themes such as resilience, sacrifice, or identity as characters face challenges that reflect broader societal issues or personal dilemmas. As characters encounter and overcome these obstacles throughout their long arcs, they not only evolve but also enrich the story's thematic depth, making the narrative more resonant and impactful for the audience.

Related terms

Conflict:

A struggle between opposing forces that creates tension in a story, driving the narrative forward and prompting character development.

Character Arc:

The transformation or inner journey of a character throughout a story, often influenced by the obstacles they encounter.

Foil:

A supporting character whose qualities contrast with another character, typically the protagonist, highlighting particular traits and challenges faced.