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.

Types of Conflict - External MAN MAN NATURE/ ANIMAL VS SOCIETY

Man vs. Man MAN 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)

Man vs. Nature/Animal MAN 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)

Man vs. Nature/Animal MAN 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)

Man vs. Society MAN 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