Internal Conflict

Definition

Internal conflict refers to the psychological struggle within a character, often involving opposing desires, beliefs, or emotions that create tension and complexity. This type of conflict is crucial for storytelling as it adds depth to characters, making their journeys relatable and compelling, and plays a significant role in shaping plot structures, enhancing character development, and driving tension that keeps readers engaged.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Internal conflict can manifest as a moral dilemma where characters must choose between competing values or desires, which can lead to significant character growth.
2. This conflict not only shapes individual character arcs but also contributes to the overall narrative structure by propelling action and influencing key plot points.
3. Writers often use internal conflict to create relatable characters; readers are drawn to those who struggle with personal issues similar to their own.
4. The resolution of internal conflict can serve as a pivotal moment in a story, leading to profound change or understanding for the character involved.
5. Effective use of internal conflict can sustain reader interest and emotional investment throughout the narrative by maintaining an ongoing sense of tension.

Review Questions

• How does internal conflict contribute to the development of multidimensional characters?
  • Internal conflict adds layers to characters by showcasing their struggles, desires, and vulnerabilities. These psychological battles make characters feel more realistic and relatable, allowing readers to connect with their journeys on an emotional level. As characters navigate their internal conflicts, they undergo transformations that reveal different facets of their personalities, enriching the narrative and deepening reader engagement.
• In what ways can internal conflict enhance the overall plot structure of a true story?
  • Internal conflict can drive the plot forward by creating obstacles that characters must overcome. This struggle often leads to critical decisions and turning points in the narrative, influencing events and outcomes. As characters confront their internal battles, these moments of tension create suspense and keep readers invested in the resolution of both personal and external conflicts throughout the story.
• Evaluate how the resolution of internal conflict impacts reader engagement in non-fiction narratives.
  • The resolution of internal conflict can significantly heighten reader engagement by providing closure to the psychological struggles presented throughout the narrative. When readers witness how characters confront and resolve their inner turmoil, it creates a satisfying payoff that reinforces themes and messages within the story. This connection not only makes the journey more impactful but also encourages readers to reflect on their own experiences with similar conflicts, fostering a deeper connection to the material.

Related terms

Character Arc:

The transformation or inner journey of a character over the course of a story, often driven by their internal conflicts.

Theme:

The underlying message or central idea explored in a narrative, which can often be reflected through the internal struggles of the characters.

Dramatic Irony:

A situation where the audience knows more about a character's internal conflict than the character themselves, heightening tension and engagement.