Internal conflict

Definition

Internal conflict refers to the psychological struggle within a character, often involving conflicting desires, emotions, or beliefs. This type of conflict is crucial in storytelling as it adds depth to characters, making them more relatable and their journeys more compelling. By illustrating the challenges that characters face within themselves, internal conflict enhances themes and drives the narrative forward.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflict often serves as a driving force for character development, leading to significant changes in a character's beliefs or actions.
2. This type of conflict can manifest as moral dilemmas, emotional struggles, or choices between competing desires.
3. Writers use internal conflict to create tension and suspense, keeping viewers engaged in a character's journey.
4. The resolution of internal conflict can lead to a character's growth or transformation, impacting the overall theme of the story.
5. Shows that effectively portray internal conflict tend to resonate more with audiences, as they reflect universal human experiences and emotions.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict enhance character development in television storytelling?
  • Internal conflict is essential for character development because it reveals the complexities of a character's thoughts and feelings. When characters grapple with their own emotions or moral dilemmas, it allows viewers to understand their motivations on a deeper level. This struggle often leads to personal growth or change, making the characters' journeys more relatable and engaging for the audience.
• In what ways can internal conflict be used to reinforce the theme of a television show?
  • Internal conflict can reinforce the theme of a television show by illustrating how characters confront their fears, desires, or ethical dilemmas. For instance, a show that explores themes of redemption may depict a character struggling with guilt over past actions. As they navigate this internal turmoil, it emphasizes the overarching message of personal growth and forgiveness within the narrative.
• Evaluate the impact of well-executed internal conflict on audience engagement and emotional connection in television series.
  • Well-executed internal conflict significantly enhances audience engagement and emotional connection by allowing viewers to empathize with characters' struggles. When audiences see characters wrestling with their own choices and emotions, it mirrors real-life experiences, creating a sense of relatability. This connection often leads to heightened investment in the characters' arcs and overall storylines, as viewers become emotionally invested in the outcomes of these inner battles.

Related terms

external conflict:

A struggle between a character and an outside force, such as another character, society, or nature.

character development: The process by which a character undergoes significant changes throughout a story, often influenced by conflicts.

theme: The central idea or message that a story conveys, often explored through the characters' conflicts and resolutions.