Internal conflict

Definition

Internal conflict refers to the psychological struggle within a character, where they grapple with opposing desires, emotions, or beliefs. This kind of conflict is essential for character development and drives the narrative forward, often influencing decisions and actions that shape the plot.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflict can manifest as a character's struggle with guilt, fear, love, or morality, creating depth and relatability.
2. This type of conflict is crucial for pacing in a narrative, as it can slow down the action to allow for introspection and character growth.
3. Writers use internal conflict to create tension and suspense, as readers become invested in the character's journey to resolve their struggles.
4. A well-crafted internal conflict often leads to a turning point in the story where characters must make significant choices that affect their outcomes.
5. Internal conflict contributes to the overall theme of a story, allowing readers to explore complex human emotions and situations.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict contribute to character development throughout a story?
  • Internal conflict plays a pivotal role in character development as it reveals the struggles and complexities of a character’s personality. When characters face opposing desires or beliefs, they undergo significant emotional journeys that shape their decisions. This growth not only makes them more relatable but also allows readers to witness how their internal struggles lead to changes in their behavior and relationships within the narrative.
• In what ways does internal conflict enhance the plot structure and pacing of a narrative?
  • Internal conflict enhances plot structure by adding layers of complexity that can shift the focus from external action to emotional depth. As characters confront their inner demons, this slows down pacing and allows for moments of reflection that enrich the storytelling. Such moments create suspense as readers anticipate how these conflicts will resolve and influence future plot developments.
• Evaluate how internal conflict can shape the themes presented in a narrative and impact the audience's perception.
  • Internal conflict profoundly shapes themes in a narrative by embodying universal human experiences such as love, loss, and moral dilemmas. As characters navigate these conflicts, themes emerge that resonate with readers on a personal level, prompting them to reflect on their own lives. This connection between internal struggles and thematic exploration elevates the storytelling, making it more impactful and thought-provoking for the audience.

Related terms

Character Arc:

The transformation or inner journey of a character throughout the story, often influenced by internal conflicts they face.

Theme:

The underlying message or central idea explored in a narrative, often highlighted through the internal conflicts of characters.

Motivation: The reasons behind a character's actions and decisions, which can be significantly impacted by their internal conflicts.