External Conflict

Definition

External conflict refers to the struggle between a character and an outside force, which can be another character, society, nature, or a physical obstacle. This type of conflict drives the plot forward and creates tension, as characters face challenges that test their resolve and influence their growth. Understanding external conflict is crucial in shaping the narrative structure and pacing, emphasizing the importance of conflict in storytelling, and developing narrative arcs that lead to resolution.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External conflicts can take many forms, including man vs. man, man vs. society, man vs. nature, and man vs. technology.
2. This type of conflict often serves as a catalyst for character development, as characters must confront their challenges head-on.
3. Effective pacing in a narrative often hinges on how well external conflicts are introduced and resolved throughout the story.
4. The resolution of external conflict typically leads to a change in the protagonist's circumstances or understanding of themselves and their world.
5. In crafting short stories, external conflict is essential for creating tension and engaging readers from beginning to end.

Review Questions

• How does external conflict contribute to character development in a narrative?
  • External conflict pushes characters into challenging situations that reveal their strengths, weaknesses, and values. As they confront these obstacles—be it through interactions with other characters or battles against societal norms—they are forced to make choices that ultimately define their growth. This struggle against outside forces not only adds tension but also deepens readers' understanding of who the characters are at their core.
• Discuss how external conflict influences the pacing of a story.
  • External conflict plays a crucial role in establishing the pacing of a story by creating moments of tension and release. When external challenges are introduced early on, they set up anticipation for how characters will respond, allowing for faster-paced sections filled with action or drama. As conflicts escalate towards the climax, pacing often quickens to maintain reader engagement, leading to a satisfying resolution that can either resolve or complicate the ongoing struggles.
• Evaluate the impact of external conflict on the overall resolution of a narrative arc.
  • The resolution of external conflict is pivotal in shaping the outcome of a narrative arc. It serves as a culmination of all built-up tensions and stakes faced by the protagonist throughout the story. How these conflicts resolve can profoundly affect not only the character's journey but also the themes conveyed within the narrative—be it triumph over adversity or cautionary tales about societal flaws. Ultimately, effective resolutions provide closure while potentially leaving room for reflection on broader issues presented through these conflicts.

Related terms

Internal Conflict: Internal conflict occurs within a character's mind, involving struggles with emotions, beliefs, or desires.

Antagonist: The antagonist is the character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating external conflict.

Climax:

The climax is the peak of tension in a story where the main conflict reaches its highest point and is confronted.