What Is An External And Internal Conflict

What is External and Internal Conflict? A Deep Dive into Literary Conflict

Conflict is the beating heart of any compelling narrative. Whether it's a sweeping epic or a short, poignant story, conflict drives the plot forward, creates suspense, and allows characters to grow and change. Understanding the different types of conflict is crucial for both writers and readers. This article will delve into the two primary categories: external conflict and internal conflict, exploring their nuances, providing examples, and demonstrating their importance in storytelling.

Understanding External Conflict: The World Against the Character

External conflict arises when a character struggles against an outside force. This force can take many forms, creating a dynamic and engaging narrative. Think of it as the character battling the world around them. The key is that the conflict originates outside the protagonist's mind.

Types of External Conflict:

• Character vs. Character: This is the most straightforward type of external conflict. It involves a direct confrontation between two or more individuals. The conflict might stem from differing goals, personality clashes, or a power struggle. Think of the classic hero-villain dynamic, where the protagonist fights to overcome an antagonist's evil plans. Examples abound in literature and film – from the legendary battles between Harry Potter and Voldemort to the quieter conflicts between family members in a drama. The tension builds as the characters clash, forcing them to make difficult choices and revealing their strengths and weaknesses.

• Character vs. Nature: In this type of conflict, the character battles the forces of nature. This could involve surviving a natural disaster, navigating treacherous terrain, or struggling against the elements. Think of Jack London's The Call of the Wild, where the dog Buck fights for survival in the harsh Alaskan wilderness. The vastness and power of nature pose an overwhelming challenge, testing the character's resilience and resourcefulness. This type of conflict often explores themes of human vulnerability and the indomitable power of the natural world.

• Character vs. Society: This conflict pits the character against the norms, values, or laws of their society. The character might be fighting for social justice, rebelling against oppressive systems, or challenging societal expectations. Think of the struggles faced by activists fighting for civil rights or characters who defy societal norms to pursue their dreams. This type of conflict often explores themes of social injustice, conformity versus rebellion, and the individual's place within a larger system. Examining the societal structures against which the character rebels reveals powerful insights into the complexities of human interaction and social power dynamics.

• Character vs. Technology: A more modern type of external conflict, this pits the character against the power and influence of technology. This could involve fighting against a dystopian technological system, struggling to adapt to rapidly advancing technology, or battling the consequences of unchecked technological progress. This conflict reflects the anxieties and concerns of our modern world, examining the ethical implications of technology and its potential to both improve and destroy human life. Science fiction often grapples with this conflict, presenting cautionary tales and exploring the complex relationship between humanity and technology.

Understanding Internal Conflict: The Battle Within

Internal conflict, also known as psychological conflict, takes place within the character's mind. It's a struggle between opposing desires, beliefs, or values within a single person. This conflict is often less visible than external conflict, but it's often the most compelling because it reveals the character's deepest vulnerabilities and motivations.

Types of Internal Conflict:

• Character vs. Self: This is the most common type of internal conflict. The character grapples with their own thoughts, feelings, and desires. This might involve a moral dilemma, a difficult decision, or a struggle with self-doubt, fear, or guilt. Consider Hamlet's famous internal struggle between his desire for revenge and his moral reservations. The character’s internal turmoil often leads to significant character development and reveals the complexities of human psychology. Examples often explore themes of self-discovery, moral ambiguity, and the search for meaning.

• Moral Dilemmas: A specific type of character vs. self conflict, this involves a situation where the character must choose between two or more morally questionable options. There is no easy answer, and the choice often carries significant consequences. This type of conflict is excellent for creating suspense and exploring complex ethical questions. The reader is often left pondering the same dilemmas as the character, fostering a deeper engagement with the narrative.

The Interplay Between External and Internal Conflict:

Often, external and internal conflicts intertwine, creating a rich and layered narrative. A character facing an external threat might also grapple with internal doubts or fears. For instance, a soldier fighting in a war (external conflict) might simultaneously struggle with their conscience or PTSD (internal conflict). This interplay adds depth and complexity to the character and enhances the overall impact of the story. The external pressure can exacerbate the internal struggle, leading to profound changes in the character's personality and outlook.

Crafting Compelling Conflict: Tips for Writers

• Raise the Stakes: The higher the stakes, the more engaging the conflict. The character's goals should be meaningful and the consequences of failure should be significant.

• Create Believable Characters: Readers need to empathize with the characters and their struggles. Develop well-rounded characters with realistic motivations and flaws.

• Develop a Clear Antagonist (External): Whether it's a person, nature, society, or technology, the antagonist should pose a credible threat to the protagonist. Clearly define their motivations and capabilities.

• Explore the Character's Inner World (Internal): Don't just show the character's actions; delve into their thoughts and feelings. Explore their doubts, fears, and motivations.

• Build Tension: Gradually increase the tension throughout the story, leading to a climax where the conflict is resolved.

• Provide a Satisfying Resolution (or Lack Thereof): The resolution should feel earned and reflect the character's journey. While a clear resolution is often satisfying, an ambiguous ending can also be effective, prompting readers to contemplate the story’s meaning.

The Importance of Conflict in Literature and Beyond:

Conflict isn't just a plot device; it's essential for creating a meaningful and memorable story. It allows us to explore complex themes, understand human nature, and experience the emotional rollercoaster of life. Understanding the nuances of external and internal conflict is vital for both writing and appreciating compelling narratives. Furthermore, these same principles apply to other forms of storytelling, such as film, theatre, and even real life. Analyzing conflicts, whether fictional or real, helps us understand the complexities of human behaviour and the struggles we face as individuals and societies. By understanding the different types of conflict and their interplay, we gain a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling and its ability to reflect and illuminate the human experience.