External conflict

Definition

External conflict refers to a struggle that occurs between a character and an outside force, such as another character, society, or nature. This type of conflict is crucial in storytelling as it drives the narrative forward, creates tension, and reveals the protagonist's challenges and growth. In dramatic works, external conflict often serves as a catalyst for character development and plot progression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External conflict can take many forms, including person vs. person, person vs. society, and person vs. nature.
2. This type of conflict is essential for creating dramatic action and engaging the audience emotionally.
3. In dramatic structure, external conflict often leads to rising action as characters confront challenges that test their resolve.
4. External conflicts are resolved during the climax of a story, providing a turning point for both the plot and characters.
5. Understanding external conflict helps in analyzing character motivations and the thematic elements within a work.

Review Questions

• How does external conflict influence the development of a protagonist in a story?
  • External conflict plays a significant role in shaping a protagonist's journey by presenting challenges that they must confront. These struggles force the character to make difficult choices and reveal their true nature, leading to growth or change. As the protagonist faces external forces, whether another character or societal expectations, their responses illuminate their values and beliefs, ultimately impacting their development throughout the narrative.
• In what ways can external conflict drive the plot of a play or story forward?
  • External conflict serves as a primary engine for plot progression by introducing obstacles that characters must navigate. It creates tension and stakes within the narrative, compelling characters to act and react to their circumstances. As these conflicts unfold, they lead to rising action that builds suspense, culminating in a climax where resolutions are sought. This dynamic keeps audiences engaged while allowing for themes to emerge through the characters' struggles against outside forces.
• Evaluate how external conflicts can contribute to thematic elements in a play or story.
  • External conflicts are pivotal in highlighting thematic elements by showcasing how characters deal with societal pressures, moral dilemmas, or natural challenges. These struggles can reveal larger ideas about human nature, ethics, and resilience as characters navigate their circumstances. For instance, an external conflict between an individual and society may explore themes of conformity versus individuality. By analyzing these conflicts, one can gain insight into the underlying messages that resonate within the narrative, enriching the overall experience for the audience.

Related terms

internal conflict:

A psychological struggle within a character, often involving emotions, desires, or decisions that create tension and influence their actions.

protagonist: The main character in a story, often facing external conflicts that challenge them and lead to character development.

antagonist:

A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating external conflict and driving the narrative tension.