Conflict

Definition

Conflict refers to a struggle or clash between opposing forces, often driving the narrative in stories, particularly in epics and sagas. It can manifest as external conflict between characters and their environment or internal conflict within a character's own mind, pushing them to evolve throughout their journey. In the context of heroic tales, conflict serves as a catalyst for the hero's development and is crucial to the unfolding of events that define their quest.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict is essential in shaping the hero's journey, as it tests their abilities, morals, and resilience.
2. There are typically two main types of conflict: external (against other characters or forces) and internal (struggles within the hero themselves).
3. Major conflicts can lead to pivotal moments in an epic or saga, influencing the direction of the hero's quest.
4. Conflicts can also highlight themes such as good versus evil, honor, sacrifice, and personal growth.
5. As the story progresses, the resolution of conflicts often leads to transformative experiences for both the hero and their world.

Review Questions

• How does conflict contribute to the development of a hero in epics and sagas?
  • Conflict plays a vital role in a hero's development by presenting challenges that test their character and resolve. As heroes face various conflicts—whether against antagonists or within themselves—they are pushed to make critical decisions that reveal their true nature. This process not only fosters personal growth but also drives the narrative forward, allowing audiences to witness transformation and evolution throughout the hero's journey.
• What are some common themes associated with conflict in epic narratives, and how do they enhance the story?
  • Common themes associated with conflict in epics include good versus evil, sacrifice, redemption, and the struggle for identity. These themes enhance the story by adding depth to characters and their motivations, making the stakes feel higher. As heroes confront conflicts that embody these themes, readers can engage more deeply with their journeys and understand broader moral lessons woven into the narrative.
• Evaluate how different types of conflict impact the overall narrative structure in epics and sagas.
  • Different types of conflict—external versus internal—impact the narrative structure by creating varying levels of tension and engagement. External conflicts often serve as action-driven plot points that propel the story forward, while internal conflicts add emotional depth and complexity to characters. Together, they create a dynamic interplay that keeps readers invested in both the overarching quest and individual character arcs. This layered storytelling enriches the narrative and enhances themes of growth, resilience, and transformation.

Related terms

Protagonist: The main character in a story, typically facing conflicts that drive the plot and their development.

Antagonist:

The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict and challenges that the hero must confront.

Resolution: The part of the story where conflicts are resolved, leading to a conclusion and often significant growth for the characters involved.