Internal conflict

Definition

Internal conflict refers to the psychological struggle within a character, often characterized by opposing desires, values, or emotions. This struggle is crucial in shaping a character's motivations and actions, making them relatable and complex. It creates depth for both protagonists and antagonists, while also driving the story's tension and pace, as these inner battles unfold in various scenes and summaries.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflict often serves as a key driver for character development, revealing their complexities and making them more relatable to readers.
2. This type of conflict can manifest in various forms, such as moral dilemmas, emotional struggles, or conflicting desires, each adding layers to the narrative.
3. The resolution of internal conflict can lead to significant change in a character's arc, either resulting in growth or a tragic downfall.
4. Effective pacing techniques can heighten the impact of internal conflict by controlling how much of the character's struggle is shown in scenes versus summarized, impacting reader engagement.
5. Exploring internal conflict can create tension not only within the character but also between characters, as their struggles influence interactions and relationships.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict contribute to the development of both protagonists and antagonists in a narrative?
  • Internal conflict plays a critical role in shaping both protagonists and antagonists by revealing their motivations, fears, and desires. For protagonists, these struggles often drive them toward growth and self-discovery as they confront their challenges. Conversely, antagonists may experience internal conflicts that highlight their complexity and make them more than just villains. This layered characterization adds depth to the story and keeps readers invested.
• In what ways does internal conflict create tension within the storyline and affect pacing?
  • Internal conflict creates tension by introducing uncertainty and emotional stakes for characters, keeping readers on edge about the outcome of their struggles. This tension can influence pacing as writers decide when to linger on characters' inner thoughts versus when to move the plot forward. By carefully balancing scenes that showcase internal conflict with summary sections, authors can maintain momentum while deepening emotional engagement with the characters.
• Evaluate the importance of resolving internal conflict for character arcs and overall story impact.
  • Resolving internal conflict is vital for character arcs as it signifies change and development, which are essential for a compelling narrative. The resolution can lead to positive growth, where characters learn from their struggles and emerge stronger. Alternatively, it can result in tragedy or failure if characters are unable to overcome their conflicts. This resolution not only impacts individual characters but also shapes the overall themes and messages of the story, reinforcing its emotional resonance with readers.

Related terms

Character Arc:

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

Motivation: The reasons or drives behind a character's actions, which are often revealed through their internal conflicts.

Dilemma: A situation in which a character faces a difficult choice between two or more conflicting options, often highlighting their internal conflict.