External Conflict

Definition

External conflict refers to the struggle between a character and an outside force, such as another character, society, nature, or fate. This type of conflict is crucial for driving the narrative and revealing character development, often highlighting obstacles that must be faced and overcome. It serves as a catalyst for the characters' actions and decisions, shaping their journeys and interactions throughout the story.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External conflict can manifest in various forms, including physical confrontations, societal pressures, or natural disasters.
2. This type of conflict helps to establish stakes in a story, making the characters' challenges feel urgent and important.
3. Characters often experience growth or change as they navigate external conflicts, showcasing their resilience or vulnerability.
4. External conflict can serve as a reflection of internal conflicts, highlighting the dual struggles characters face.
5. Effective storytelling often balances external conflict with internal conflict to create a rich narrative tapestry that engages the audience.

Review Questions

• How does external conflict enhance character development in a narrative?
  • External conflict pushes characters into challenging situations that reveal their true nature and beliefs. As they face obstacles posed by outside forces, their responses can showcase growth, resilience, or even flaws. This not only drives the plot forward but also allows the audience to connect more deeply with the characters as they navigate these struggles.
• In what ways can external conflict influence the overall theme of a story?
  • External conflict often embodies the central themes of a narrative by illustrating the struggle between individual desires and societal expectations or natural forces. By examining how characters deal with these external pressures, readers can gain insight into broader themes such as survival, morality, or the fight for identity. Thus, external conflict plays a pivotal role in emphasizing the story's underlying messages.
• Evaluate the impact of external conflict on plot progression and audience engagement within a script.
  • External conflict is essential for plot progression as it creates tension and urgency that keeps audiences invested. As characters confront external obstacles—whether from antagonists or society—they face turning points that lead to climaxes and resolutions. This engagement not only maintains interest but also provides opportunities for emotional investment in character arcs and thematic exploration throughout the script.

Related terms

Internal Conflict:

A psychological struggle within a character, often involving emotions, desires, or moral dilemmas.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist and creates conflict in the narrative.

Climax: The point of highest tension in a story, where the main conflict reaches its peak and often leads to a resolution.