Internal Conflict

Definition

Internal conflict refers to a psychological struggle within a character, often involving competing desires, emotions, or beliefs. This type of conflict is crucial for character development and drives the narrative forward, as it reveals the complexities of human nature and the challenges individuals face in making decisions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflict can manifest as moral dilemmas, emotional struggles, or competing goals, adding depth to the character's journey.
2. This type of conflict often leads to pivotal moments in the plot where characters must make significant choices that shape their fate.
3. Authors use internal conflict to create relatable characters, allowing the audience to connect with their struggles on a personal level.
4. Resolving internal conflict can lead to growth and change in a character, making their journey more compelling and relatable.
5. Internal conflict is often mirrored in external conflicts, creating a richer narrative where personal issues reflect larger themes in the story.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict enhance character development in storytelling?
  • Internal conflict enhances character development by showcasing a character's struggles and growth throughout the story. When characters face difficult choices between competing desires or beliefs, it allows them to evolve in response to these challenges. This evolution makes the characters more relatable and realistic, as audiences can see their thought processes and emotional turmoil, which deepens the overall narrative.
• Discuss how internal conflict can influence the theme of a story.
  • Internal conflict often serves as a key driver for the theme of a story by highlighting the moral dilemmas and emotional challenges faced by characters. As characters navigate their struggles, they may confront universal questions about identity, morality, and purpose. These explorations not only shape the characters' arcs but also convey deeper meanings that resonate with audiences, ultimately enriching the thematic elements of the narrative.
• Evaluate the relationship between internal conflict and motivation within a character's journey.
  • The relationship between internal conflict and motivation is integral to understanding a character's journey. Internal conflicts often arise from conflicting motivations, leading to complex decision-making processes. For instance, when a character wants to achieve a goal but faces ethical dilemmas or personal fears, this tension can either propel them forward or cause them to hesitate. By evaluating this interplay, we can appreciate how internal struggles fuel not only personal growth but also pivotal plot developments.

Related terms

Character Arc: The transformation or inner journey of a character throughout a story, often influenced by their internal conflicts.

Theme:

The central idea or underlying message in a story, often explored through characters' internal conflicts and their resolutions.

Motivation: The driving force behind a character's actions and decisions, which can be deeply affected by their internal conflicts.