Exploring Conflict Types in Literature: Internal and External Dynamics
In literature, conflict drives the plot by introducing opposing forces faced by characters. This guide delves into two major types of conflict: internal and external. Internal conflict occurs within a character, presenting psychological dilemmas, while external conflict manifests in various forms, such as man vs. man, man vs. nature/animal, and man vs. society. Each type of conflict shapes character development and narrative progression, providing depth to stories. By understanding these dynamics, readers can better appreciate the complexities of literary works.
Exploring Conflict Types in Literature: Internal and External Dynamics
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Presentation Transcript
Understanding Conflict By Kamilah Reed ELAR-8
What is Conflict? In literature, conflict is the opposition of persons or forces that brings about dramatic action central to the plot of a story.
Types of Conflict - Internal Internal Conflict is described as a psychological conflict within a character (conscience). Internal conflict is not always “good vs. evil.” An internal conflict could also be between two positive forces.
MAN NATURE/ ANIMAL SOCIETY MAN Types of Conflict - External VS
MAN MAN Man vs. Man • The most common form of external conflict • Many protagonists must face down an adversary or antagonist that stands in the way of them achieving their goals. The conflict could quite literally be physical combat, or a more emotional or psychological standoff between characters. (Kaufmann, 2009)
NATURE/ ANIMAL MAN Man vs. Nature/Animal • Often, literature relies on the force of natural disasters or natural phenomena to thwart the protagonist. This form of external conflict could involve floods, fires, storms, or severe winds---all of these forces are commonly used to symbolize the conflict between man and the universe or man's struggle against God. (Kaufmann, 2009)
NATURE/ ANIMAL MAN Man vs. Nature/Animal • The “man vs. animal” conflict is often used to show the symbolic struggle between good and evil. The beasts of popular myths often exhibit supernatural strength, but are ultimately defeated by the cunning and bravery of their human foe. (Kaufmann, 2009)
SOCIETY MAN Man vs. Society • Often, protagonists feel alienated or are treated as outcasts of society. They may feel trapped, paranoid, or have a sense that something is tragically flawed about the world around them. To their dismay, the majority of people are unable to see their point of view. The protagonist struggles to change conventions or institutions like government or religion, often without success. (Kaufmann, 2009)
AND NOW… Let’s read a story!
SOURCES • Kaufmann, K. (Producer). (2009). Types of external conflict. [Web]. Retrieved from http://www.ehow.com/facts_5454690_types-external-conflict.html
