Conflict

Definition

Conflict is a struggle between opposing forces, which can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters or between a character and their environment). This tension drives the narrative forward, creating obstacles that characters must navigate, and it is essential in shaping character arcs, motivations, and relationships.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be categorized into different types: man vs. man, man vs. self, man vs. nature, and man vs. society, each influencing character development in unique ways.
2. The development of conflict is crucial for creating engaging stories, as it reveals characters' true natures and motivations when faced with challenges.
3. In character development, internal conflicts often lead to significant transformations in a character's beliefs or behaviors throughout the story.
4. External conflicts can highlight social issues or themes, making the characters' struggles resonate with larger societal questions.
5. Conflict resolution is often the catalyst for character growth, pushing characters to confront their fears, desires, and ultimately evolve.

Review Questions

• How does conflict influence character development within a narrative?
  • Conflict is a vital force in shaping character development. It pushes characters to confront challenges that reveal their motivations and beliefs. Through facing both internal and external conflicts, characters undergo transformation and growth. The way they navigate these struggles provides insight into their true selves and how they evolve over the course of the story.
• In what ways can different types of conflict affect the relationships between characters?
  • Different types of conflict can significantly affect character relationships by introducing tension and creating dynamics that challenge interactions. For example, an external conflict between two characters may lead to rivalry or hostility, while internal conflicts within one character may cause misunderstandings or distance in relationships. How characters respond to these conflicts can either strengthen bonds or drive them apart, adding depth to their interactions.
• Evaluate how the resolution of conflict contributes to the overall theme of a story and its impact on character arcs.
  • The resolution of conflict is crucial as it not only ties up loose ends but also reinforces the overarching themes of the story. It reflects the journey each character has taken through their challenges and showcases their growth or lack thereof. By resolving conflicts in meaningful ways, characters can emerge transformed, highlighting the lessons learned or failures faced along the way. This interplay between resolution and theme creates a lasting impact on both characters and the audience.

Related terms

Protagonist:

The main character in a story, usually facing challenges or conflicts that drive the plot.

Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and driving the story's tension.

Resolution:

The conclusion of the conflict in a story, where tensions are resolved and character arcs reach their conclusions.