External Conflict

Definition

External conflict refers to a struggle between a character and an outside force, which can include other characters, society, nature, or technology. This type of conflict is essential in storytelling as it drives the plot and reveals character development through challenges they face. In classical narrative structure, external conflict often acts as the primary catalyst for the protagonist's journey and growth, allowing audiences to engage emotionally with the characters' struggles.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External conflict is vital for creating tension in a narrative, as it challenges the protagonist and propels the story forward.
2. In classical narratives, external conflicts often follow specific patterns such as man vs. man, man vs. nature, or man vs. society.
3. The resolution of external conflict typically leads to a climax in the story, where the stakes are highest and character decisions are crucial.
4. Characters experiencing external conflict often undergo significant transformations or realizations that reveal their true selves.
5. Effective use of external conflict enhances audience engagement by evoking empathy for the protagonist’s struggles against formidable forces.

Review Questions

• How does external conflict contribute to character development in classical narrative structure?
  • External conflict plays a crucial role in character development by placing the protagonist in challenging situations that require them to make difficult decisions. As they navigate through these struggles against outside forces, their true personalities and values emerge. This journey not only reveals their strengths and weaknesses but also helps the audience connect with them on a deeper emotional level, making their eventual growth or failure more impactful.
• Compare and contrast external conflict with internal conflict and discuss their roles in shaping the overall narrative.
  • External conflict involves struggles between a character and outside forces, while internal conflict is focused on a character's psychological struggles. Both types of conflict are essential for creating a rich narrative. External conflict often serves to advance the plot and provide visible stakes, while internal conflict adds depth by exploring a character's thoughts and emotions. Together, they create a multi-dimensional experience for the audience, highlighting how external challenges can influence internal growth.
• Evaluate how different types of external conflicts can change the direction of a story and impact its themes.
  • Different types of external conflicts—such as man vs. man, man vs. nature, or man vs. society—can significantly alter a story's direction and thematic focus. For instance, a man vs. nature conflict may highlight themes of survival and resilience, while a man vs. society scenario could explore issues like oppression or social justice. The specific nature of these conflicts not only shapes the plot trajectory but also influences character motivations and the overall message conveyed to the audience.

Related terms

Internal Conflict:

A psychological struggle within a character, often involving emotions, desires, or moral dilemmas that they must resolve.

Protagonist:

The main character in a story, typically facing challenges that create external conflict and drive the narrative forward.

Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating external conflict and tension within the narrative.