Conflict

Definition

Conflict is a struggle or clash between opposing forces, ideas, or characters that drives the narrative forward and creates tension in a story. It often serves as the catalyst for character development, plot progression, and emotional engagement, as characters navigate challenges and adversities. Conflict can manifest in various forms, such as internal struggles within a character or external confrontations between characters or forces, and is essential for creating compelling and dynamic storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict is crucial for engaging readers and keeping their interest throughout the story; without it, narratives can feel flat and unexciting.
2. There are different types of conflict: internal conflict occurs within a character's mind, while external conflict occurs between characters or between a character and an outside force.
3. Effective storytelling often builds conflict gradually, escalating tension until it reaches a peak, which then leads to the climax of the story.
4. Conflict drives character development; how characters respond to conflict reveals their true nature and can lead to growth or change.
5. The resolution of conflict is essential for providing closure to the narrative and leaving the audience with a sense of satisfaction or contemplation.

Review Questions

• How does conflict contribute to character development in storytelling?
  • Conflict plays a vital role in character development by challenging characters to confront obstacles that reveal their strengths, weaknesses, and true selves. As characters navigate through conflicts—whether internal struggles or external confrontations—they undergo growth and transformation. The decisions they make and the lessons they learn from these experiences help to shape their identities and drive the narrative forward.
• Analyze the impact of different types of conflict on plot progression in a narrative.
  • Different types of conflict—internal and external—significantly impact plot progression. Internal conflicts can lead to intense character arcs as individuals struggle with their desires and fears, affecting their decisions and actions. In contrast, external conflicts often involve interactions with antagonists or societal pressures that propel the story toward action-driven scenes. Both types of conflict create tension and suspense, ensuring that the plot remains engaging and dynamic.
• Evaluate how resolution of conflict affects audience engagement and narrative satisfaction.
  • The resolution of conflict is critical for audience engagement as it provides closure and answers to the tensions established throughout the story. A well-crafted resolution not only ties up loose ends but also reinforces themes and lessons learned by the characters. When conflicts are resolved satisfactorily, audiences are more likely to feel emotionally fulfilled and connected to the narrative, leading to lasting impressions about the story's message and characters.

Related terms

Resolution:

The part of a story where the conflict is resolved, leading to a conclusion of the narrative.

Antagonist: A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict in the story.

Climax: The point of highest tension in a story where the main conflict reaches its peak before resolution.