Literary Term - Conflict

 

Literary Term

Conflict 

In literature, the term "conflict" refers to the struggle or opposition between opposing forces that drives the plot of a story. Conflict is a crucial element in storytelling, as it creates tension, drives the narrative forward, and allows for the development of characters and themes. There are several types of conflicts commonly found in literature:

 

Internal Conflict:

This occurs within a character's mind, involving opposing thoughts, emotions, or desires. It is a psychological struggle that the character experiences, such as a moral dilemma or personal struggle.

 

External Conflict:

Man vs. Man: The central character faces opposition from another character or group of characters.

Man vs. Nature: The conflict arises between the protagonist and the forces of nature, such as weather, animals, or the environment.

Man vs. Society: The protagonist confronts societal norms, rules, or expectations that challenge their beliefs or actions.

Man vs. Technology: The conflict involves the struggle between the protagonist and technological elements or advancements.

 

Conflict of the Plot:

Man vs. Fate/Destiny: The character is in conflict with fate or a predetermined destiny.

Man vs. Circumstances: The protagonist faces adverse situations or circumstances beyond their control.

 

Conflict is essential for creating tension and interest in a story, driving characters to make choices, and allowing for the exploration of deeper themes. A well-developed conflict contributes to the overall complexity and richness of the narrative.

 

Elements of Conflict

 

Misunderstandings:

Conflict can arise from characters misinterpreting each other's words, actions, or intentions.

Example: A classic example is when two characters are unable to communicate effectively, leading to a series of misunderstandings that drive the plot.

 

Differences in Values and Beliefs:

Characters with conflicting moral or ethical principles can create tension and conflict in a narrative.

Example: A story might explore the clash between characters with different cultural backgrounds, each holding strong beliefs that lead to conflict.

 

Differences in Interests:

Characters pursuing divergent goals or having conflicting interests can lead to external conflicts.

Example: In a workplace setting, two colleagues competing for a promotion may experience conflict due to their conflicting professional interests.

 

Interpersonal Differences:

Conflicts can arise from differences in personality, communication styles, or interpersonal dynamics between characters.

Example: A story might depict the challenges faced by two characters with opposing personalities who must work together to achieve a common goal.

 

Feelings and Emotions:

Emotional conflicts can stem from characters' feelings such as jealousy, love, hatred, or fear.

Example: A love triangle, where characters experience conflicting emotions and desires, is a classic example of emotional conflict in literature.

 

These elements often overlap and interact within a narrative, creating layers of complexity. Well-developed conflicts, stemming from these elements, contribute to the depth and realism of characters and the overall storyline. They provide opportunities for character growth, resolution, and the exploration of important themes.

 

Function of Conflict in Literature

Conflict plays a crucial role in literature, serving multiple functions that contribute to the richness and depth of a narrative. Here are some key functions of conflict in literature:

Driving the Plot:

Conflict is often the driving force behind the plot. It introduces challenges, obstacles, and complications that propel the story forward and maintain the reader's interest.

Creating Tension:

Conflict generates tension and suspense in a narrative. Readers become invested in the outcome of the conflict, eagerly turning pages to see how characters will overcome challenges.

Developing Characters:

Through conflict, characters are tested and revealed. Their responses to challenges provide insights into their personalities, values, strengths, and weaknesses. Conflict is a tool for character development and growth.

Revealing Themes:

Conflict allows writers to explore and convey underlying themes in the story. Whether it's a conflict between individuals, societies, or internal struggles, the resolution often highlights broader ideas or moral lessons.

Engaging the Reader:

Conflict captures the reader's attention and engages them emotionally. Readers become invested in the characters' struggles, creating a connection that keeps them invested in the story.

Offering Resolution:

Conflict sets the stage for resolution and closure. The resolution of conflict provides a sense of satisfaction for the reader and contributes to the overall structure of the narrative.

Reflecting Reality:

Conflict in literature mirrors the conflicts that individuals and societies face in real life. By exploring these conflicts in a fictional context, literature provides a means for readers to reflect on and understand the complexities of human relationships and societal issues.

Creating Variety:

Conflict introduces variety and dynamic elements to a story. Without conflict, a narrative may lack tension and interest, making it less engaging for the reader.

Building Suspense:

As conflicts unfold, they often build suspense, keeping readers eagerly anticipating the next development. This anticipation adds momentum to the story.

Emphasizing Change:

Conflict is often a catalyst for change, whether it be a change in a character's circumstances, beliefs, or relationships. It propels the narrative forward by showing the transformative effects of the challenges characters face.

In summary, conflict is a fundamental and integral element in literature. It shapes the narrative, influences character arcs, and provides a framework for exploring complex themes and emotions, ultimately contributing to the overall impact and resonance of a literary work.

 

Difference Between Conflict and Tension in Literature

Conflict and tension are related literary elements, but they serve distinct purposes in storytelling. Here's a breakdown of the key differences between conflict and tension in literature:

 

Definition:

Conflict: In literature, conflict refers to the struggle or opposition between opposing forces, which can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters, society, nature, etc.).

Tension: Tension, on the other hand, is the sense of anticipation, uncertainty, or unease that a writer creates to keep the audience engaged. It's a feeling of emotional strain or suspense.

 

Nature:

Conflict: Involves a clash, struggle, or opposition that propels the plot forward. It often requires resolution for the story to reach a conclusion.

Tension: Relates to the emotional atmosphere or anticipation in a story. It may or may not be directly tied to a conflict and can exist to maintain interest or create suspense.

 

Function:

Conflict: Drives the narrative, shapes character development, and provides obstacles that characters must overcome. It is essential for creating a dynamic and engaging storyline.

Tension: Creates a mood or atmosphere, keeping the reader engaged and eager to know what happens next. Tension can be present even in the absence of overt conflict.

 

Timing:

Conflict: Typically, conflict comes to the forefront at specific points in the story, such as during major plot events or turning points.

Tension: Can be present throughout the narrative, building gradually or intensifying at certain moments. Tension can be a consistent undercurrent in a story.

 

Resolution:

Conflict: Often requires resolution for the story to progress or conclude. The resolution may bring about change in characters or situations.

Tension: Can be resolved or heightened, depending on the author's intent. Not all tension needs to lead to a specific resolution; it can be used to maintain interest or leave questions unanswered.

 

Examples:

Conflict: A classic example is the external conflict between the protagonist and the antagonist, driving the central conflict of the story.

Tension: Tension might be created through suspenseful foreshadowing, unresolved emotions between characters, or an impending event that the reader anticipates.

 

In summary, conflict is the clash or struggle that forms the backbone of a story, while tension is the emotional undercurrent that keeps readers engaged. Conflict often generates tension, but tension can exist independently of explicit conflict, contributing to the overall atmosphere and reader experience in a narrative.

 

Central Conflict or Core Conflict

The central conflict, also known as the core conflict or main conflict, is the primary struggle or opposition that lies at the heart of a story. It serves as the driving force behind the narrative, shaping the plot and influencing the characters' actions and development. The resolution of the central conflict often determines the outcome or conclusion of the story.

The central conflict is typically the most significant and overarching challenge that the protagonist (main character) faces. It can manifest in various forms, depending on the nature and genre of the story. Some common types of central conflict include:

Man vs. Man:

The protagonist faces conflict with another character, group of characters, or antagonist.

Man vs. Nature:

The protagonist struggles against natural forces, environmental challenges, or elements of the natural world.

Man vs. Society:

The conflict arises from the protagonist's opposition to societal norms, rules, expectations, or a larger social structure.

Man vs. Self:

The protagonist grapples with internal conflicts, such as inner turmoil, moral dilemmas, or personal struggles.

Man vs. Fate/Destiny:

The conflict involves the protagonist's struggle against a predetermined destiny or external forces beyond their control.

Man vs. Technology:

The conflict arises from the protagonist's confrontation with machines, artificial intelligence, or technological advancements.

The central conflict is instrumental in shaping the narrative, and its resolution often leads to the climax and conclusion of the story. It provides the focus around which the plot revolves and serves as a key element in engaging the reader's interest. The exploration of the central conflict allows authors to delve into themes, character motivations, and the overall message or meaning of the story.

 

Examples of Conflict in Literature

 

Man vs. Man:

In William Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet," the central conflict arises between the two families, the Montagues and the Capulets, leading to the tragic love story between Romeo and Juliet.

 

Man vs. Nature:

In Jack London's "To Build a Fire," the protagonist faces the harsh, unforgiving elements of the Yukon Territory, struggling against the extreme cold and trying to survive.

 

Man vs. Society:

In George Orwell's "1984," the protagonist, Winston Smith, rebels against the oppressive and controlling government of a dystopian society.

 

Man vs. Self:

In Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment," the main character, Raskolnikov, grapples with internal conflict as he struggles with guilt and the morality of his actions.

 

Man vs. Fate/Destiny:

In Sophocles' "Oedipus Rex," Oedipus faces a tragic destiny that he attempts to defy but ultimately fulfills, highlighting the conflict between individual agency and fate.

 

Man vs. Technology:

In Isaac Asimov's "I, Robot," the stories explore conflicts between humans and robots, addressing the ethical and social implications of advanced artificial intelligence.

 

Man vs. Man (Internal Conflict within a Group):

In William Golding's "Lord of the Flies," the central conflict is not only the boys' struggle for survival on a deserted island but also the internal conflicts within the group as they grapple with their own fears and instincts.

 

Man vs. Time:

In H.G. Wells' "The Time Machine," the protagonist, known as the Time Traveller, faces the conflict of navigating through different eras in time, encountering various challenges and societal changes.

 

Man vs. Alien/Unknown:

In H.P. Lovecraft's "The Call of Cthulhu," the conflict arises as characters confront otherworldly, cosmic horrors that defy human understanding.

 

Man vs. Supernatural:

In Bram Stoker's "Dracula," the central conflict involves characters facing the supernatural threat posed by the vampire Count Dracula.

 

These examples showcase the versatility of conflict in literature, demonstrating how it can manifest in different forms and contribute to the complexity and depth of a story.

 

Function of Conflict

The function of conflict in literature is multifaceted, serving several crucial roles in shaping the narrative and engaging the reader. Here are some key functions of conflict:

 

Driving the Plot:

Conflict is a primary driver of the plot. It introduces challenges, obstacles, and complications that propel the story forward, providing a structure and direction to the narrative.

 

Creating Tension:

Conflict generates tension and suspense. The unresolved nature of conflict keeps readers invested in the story, eager to know how the characters will navigate and overcome challenges.

 

Developing Characters:

Characters are tested and revealed through conflict. Their responses to challenges showcase their personalities, strengths, weaknesses, and growth throughout the story.

 

Engaging the Reader:

Conflict captures the reader's attention and maintains their interest. Readers become emotionally invested in the characters' struggles, fostering a connection with the narrative.

 

Revealing Themes:

Conflict allows authors to explore and convey underlying themes in the story. Whether it's a conflict between characters or a broader societal conflict, the resolution often highlights deeper ideas or moral lessons.

 

Encouraging Change:

Conflict serves as a catalyst for change. Characters may undergo transformation, altering their perspectives, beliefs, or circumstances as they navigate and resolve conflicts.

 

Highlighting Relationships:

Conflict illuminates the dynamics between characters and their relationships. Whether it's conflict between friends, family members, or romantic partners, it adds complexity to interpersonal connections.

 

Building Suspense:

As conflicts unfold and intensify, they contribute to the overall suspense in the story. Readers are kept on edge, anticipating the outcomes and resolutions.

 

Offering Resolution:

Conflict sets the stage for resolution. The resolution of conflicts provides a sense of closure and satisfaction, bringing the narrative to a conclusion.

 

Reflecting Reality:

Conflict in literature mirrors the conflicts present in real life, allowing readers to relate to and reflect on the challenges faced by characters.

 

Exploring Morality and Ethics:

Conflict often involves moral and ethical dilemmas, providing opportunities for characters to make choices that explore the boundaries of right and wrong.

 

Adding Variety and Interest:

Conflict introduces variety and dynamic elements to the story. Without conflict, a narrative may lack tension and interest, making it less engaging for the reader.

 

In summary, conflict is a fundamental and integral element in literature. It serves as a dynamic force that shapes the narrative, influences character development, and allows for the exploration of complex themes and emotions, ultimately contributing to the overall impact and resonance of a literary work.

 

Synonyms of Conflict

There are several synonyms for the term "conflict," each capturing different aspects of struggle, opposition, or disagreement. Here are some synonyms for conflict:

Strife

Dispute

Clash

Contest

Combat

Confrontation

Battle

Confrontation

Friction

Hostility

Struggle

Tension

Dissent

Antagonism

Confrontation

Quarrel

Discord

Rivalry

Opposition

Standoff

These synonyms can be used in different contexts to convey the idea of conflict, whether it's a physical struggle, a disagreement of ideas, or a clash between individuals or groups. The choice of synonym may depend on the specific nuance or intensity of the conflict being described.