Internal conflicts

Definition

Internal conflicts refer to the psychological struggles within a character, often involving opposing desires, beliefs, or emotions that create tension and drive the narrative forward. These conflicts are essential for character development, as they showcase a character's vulnerabilities and complexities, allowing audiences to empathize with their struggles and fostering a deeper identification with the character's journey.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflicts often manifest as struggles between personal desires and societal expectations, highlighting the character's emotional depth.
2. These conflicts are crucial in creating relatable characters, as audiences are more likely to connect with characters who face realistic dilemmas.
3. Internal conflicts can lead to significant character development, resulting in transformative experiences for the character as they confront and resolve their struggles.
4. The resolution of internal conflicts can serve as a pivotal moment in the story, often leading to character growth or a new understanding of themselves.
5. Writers use internal conflicts to enhance dramatic tension in the narrative, keeping audiences engaged as they root for the character's resolution.

Review Questions

• How do internal conflicts contribute to a character's development throughout a story?
  • Internal conflicts play a crucial role in character development by revealing the complexities and vulnerabilities of a character. As characters face their internal struggles, they often undergo significant transformations, leading to personal growth and deeper self-awareness. This development creates a more engaging narrative, allowing audiences to connect with the character on an emotional level as they witness their journey through these challenges.
• Discuss the relationship between internal conflicts and audience empathy in storytelling.
  • The relationship between internal conflicts and audience empathy is vital in storytelling. When characters experience internal struggles, it makes them more relatable and human, which fosters empathy from the audience. As viewers witness these characters navigating their dilemmas, they can identify with similar feelings or situations in their own lives. This emotional connection enhances the overall engagement with the story and investment in the characters' outcomes.
• Evaluate how internal conflicts can influence the overall theme of a narrative and its impact on viewers.
  • Internal conflicts significantly influence the overall theme of a narrative by highlighting key moral dilemmas and personal choices that resonate with viewers. By examining a character's internal struggles, writers can effectively explore themes such as identity, morality, and resilience. This exploration not only enriches the story but also encourages viewers to reflect on their own lives and values, creating a lasting impact beyond the screen.

Related terms

Character Arc:

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

Motivation:

The driving force behind a character's actions and decisions, which can be shaped by their internal conflicts and desires.

Theme: The central idea or underlying message of a story, which can be explored through the internal conflicts faced by characters.