Internal Conflict

Definition

Internal conflict refers to the psychological struggle that takes place within a character, often manifesting as a clash of desires, beliefs, or emotions. This struggle is crucial for character development, as it drives the character's decisions and actions, ultimately shaping their journey and growth throughout the story. By revealing a character's internal conflicts, writers can create depth and relatability, allowing audiences to connect with the characters on a more emotional level.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflict can manifest as moral dilemmas, emotional struggles, or competing desires within a character.
2. It serves as a catalyst for character development, often leading to significant changes in the character’s beliefs or behaviors.
3. Writers can use internal conflict to create tension and suspense in the narrative, keeping readers engaged as they anticipate how the character will resolve their struggles.
4. The resolution of an internal conflict often reflects the theme of the story, providing insight into the character’s growth and the overall message.
5. Internal conflicts are not always resolved; sometimes characters may learn to live with their struggles, adding complexity to their portrayal.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict enhance character development in storytelling?
  • Internal conflict is essential for character development because it reveals the complexities of a character's psyche and influences their choices throughout the narrative. When characters face internal struggles, it prompts them to confront their beliefs and values, leading to growth or change. This struggle makes characters more relatable and layered, allowing audiences to invest emotionally in their journeys as they navigate these personal challenges.
• In what ways can writers effectively depict internal conflict to create tension in their stories?
  • Writers can depict internal conflict effectively by using techniques such as inner monologues, dialogue with other characters, or physical manifestations of emotional turmoil. By showing a character wrestling with their thoughts and feelings, writers can build tension and keep readers engaged as they wonder how the character will resolve these conflicts. Additionally, contrasting a character's external actions with their internal struggles can heighten this tension further, emphasizing the stakes involved.
• Evaluate the impact of unresolved internal conflict on character arcs and themes within a narrative.
  • Unresolved internal conflict can significantly impact both character arcs and themes within a narrative. When a character does not achieve resolution for their struggles, it can lead to an incomplete arc that reflects real-life complexities, where not every issue has a clear answer. This ambiguity can enrich themes related to human experience, such as acceptance of flaws or the ongoing nature of personal growth. It challenges readers to reflect on the intricacies of identity and emotional resilience, making the story resonate on a deeper level.

Related terms

Character Arc:

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

Motivation: The reasons behind a character's actions and decisions, which can be deeply affected by their internal conflicts.

Theme:

The central idea or underlying message in a story, often explored through characters' internal conflicts and resolutions.