External conflict

Definition

External conflict refers to the struggle between a character and an outside force, which can include other characters, society, nature, or fate. This type of conflict is crucial in storytelling as it drives the plot and reveals the characters' motivations and challenges they face. It is often contrasted with internal conflict, where the struggle occurs within a character's mind, and external conflict often plays a key role in shaping character development and thematic elements within a narrative.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External conflict can manifest in various forms such as man vs. man, man vs. nature, man vs. society, and man vs. fate.
2. This type of conflict is essential for advancing the plot as it creates tension and obstacles that characters must overcome.
3. External conflicts often lead to character growth and transformation as individuals confront challenges that test their beliefs and abilities.
4. The resolution of external conflict can lead to significant turning points in a story, impacting not just the protagonist but also the overall narrative outcome.
5. Writers use external conflicts to create drama and engage audiences by placing characters in difficult situations that require tough choices.

Review Questions

• How does external conflict enhance the development of the protagonist in a story?
  • External conflict is vital for enhancing a protagonist's development as it presents them with challenges that reveal their strengths and weaknesses. Through facing adversities such as rival characters or societal pressures, the protagonist often undergoes significant growth. This growth not only makes the character more relatable to the audience but also serves to deepen the overall narrative by showcasing their journey through struggles.
• In what ways can external conflict influence the theme of a narrative?
  • External conflict significantly influences themes in narratives by providing a context for characters' struggles and choices. For example, if a story's external conflict revolves around societal issues, it can highlight themes of justice or oppression. Similarly, when characters battle against nature, it may evoke themes of survival and resilience. These conflicts shape not only individual character arcs but also the overarching messages conveyed by the story.
• Evaluate how external conflict interacts with internal conflict to create a compelling narrative experience.
  • The interaction between external and internal conflicts creates a rich tapestry that engages audiences on multiple levels. External conflicts introduce tangible obstacles that challenge characters, while internal conflicts reveal their emotional struggles and moral dilemmas. This duality allows for deeper storytelling as characters navigate their circumstances while wrestling with personal fears or desires. The interplay between these types of conflicts ultimately enriches character development and heightens the stakes of the narrative.

Related terms

internal conflict:

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

protagonist: The main character in a story, often facing external conflicts that drive the narrative forward.

antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating external conflict and tension within the story.