Understanding External Conflict in Literature
External conflict in literature is a fundamental element that drives the narrative forward and shapes the development of characters and themes. It refers to the struggle between a character and an outside force, which can be another character, society, nature, or a supernatural entity. This type of conflict creates tension and suspense, engaging readers and providing a framework for exploring complex ideas about morality, survival, and human nature. Understanding the nuances of external conflict is crucial for analyzing literature and appreciating how authors craft compelling stories.
Types of External Conflict
External conflict manifests in various forms, each serving different narrative purposes. Recognizing these types helps in dissecting stories and understanding character motivations.
1. Character vs. Character
This is one of the most common forms of external conflict. It involves a direct confrontation between two or more characters, often embodying opposing desires or values. This conflict can be physical, verbal, or psychological, and it frequently appears in genres like drama, romance, and adventure.
Examples:
- The rivalry between Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy in J.K. Rowling's series.
- The conflict between Scout and Bob Ewell in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird.
2. Character vs. Society
Here, the protagonist faces opposition from societal norms, laws, or collective beliefs. This type of conflict often explores themes of justice, freedom, and social change.
Examples:
- Katniss Everdeen's rebellion against the oppressive Capitol in Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games.
- Hester Prynne’s defiance of the Puritan society in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s The Scarlet Letter.
3. Character vs. Nature
In this scenario, characters struggle against natural forces such as weather, animals, or environmental conditions. It highlights human vulnerability and resilience.
Examples:
- The survival story of Robinson Crusoe in Daniel Defoe’s novel.
- The characters battling a storm at sea in Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea.
4. Character vs. Supernatural
This conflict pits characters against supernatural entities like ghosts, gods, or otherworldly forces. It often explores themes of faith, fate, and the unknown.
Examples:
- The struggle of Macbeth with the supernatural prophecies in Shakespeare’s play.
- The protagonist’s battle with ghosts in Shirley Jackson’s The Haunting of Hill House.
The Role of External Conflict in Narrative Development
External conflict is crucial in shaping the story’s progression. It creates obstacles that characters must confront, and their responses reveal their personalities, values, and growth. Without external conflict, stories may lack tension and direction, making the narrative less compelling.
1. Driving the Plot
External conflicts act as catalysts that propel the story forward. They introduce challenges that characters must navigate, leading to pivotal moments and turning points.
2. Developing Characters
How characters respond to external conflicts provides insights into their nature. It reveals their strengths, weaknesses, and moral compass. For example, a character’s courage in facing danger highlights bravery, while their retreat may demonstrate fear or weakness.
3. Highlighting Themes
External conflicts often embody larger themes within the story. For instance, a character’s struggle against societal injustice underscores themes of morality and resistance.
Examples of External Conflict in Classic and Modern Literature
Analyzing external conflict across various works illustrates its versatility and importance.
1. "To Kill a Mockingbird" by Harper Lee
- Conflict Type: Character vs. Society
- Summary: Atticus Finch defends Tom Robinson, an innocent Black man falsely accused of assaulting a white woman, in a deeply racist society. The external conflict emphasizes themes of racial injustice and moral integrity.
2. "The Most Dangerous Game" by Richard Connell
- Conflict Type: Character vs. Character
- Summary: The protagonist, Rainsford, becomes hunted by General Zaroff on a remote island. This intense man-vs-man conflict explores themes of survival and the nature of violence.
3. "Hatchet" by Gary Paulsen
- Conflict Type: Character vs. Nature
- Summary: A young boy survives a plane crash and must learn to live in the wilderness with limited resources, emphasizing resilience and self-reliance.
4. "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley
- Conflict Type: Character vs. Supernatural/Inner
- Summary: Victor Frankenstein’s creation becomes a threat, leading to a series of confrontations that explore the dangers of playing God and the consequences of unchecked scientific ambition.
Analyzing the Impact of External Conflict
The significance of external conflict extends beyond mere plot mechanics. It influences the narrative’s tone, character development, and thematic depth.
1. Creating Suspense and Engagement
External conflicts generate suspense by presenting characters with tangible obstacles, encouraging readers to invest emotionally in their struggles.
2. Reflecting Human Experience
External conflicts mirror real-world struggles—conflicts with society, nature, or other individuals—making stories relatable and meaningful.
3. Facilitating Moral and Ethical Exploration
These conflicts often pose moral dilemmas, prompting characters and readers to consider questions about right and wrong, justice, and human nature.
Conclusion
External conflict in literature is an essential component that enriches storytelling by providing tension, character development, and thematic resonance. Whether it involves characters battling societal norms, confronting the natural world, or engaging in disputes with others, external conflicts serve to challenge protagonists and propel narratives toward resolution. Recognizing and analyzing these conflicts enables readers and scholars to gain deeper insights into the stories and the human conditions they explore. As a dynamic force within literature, external conflict continues to captivate audiences and shape timeless tales across genres and eras.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is external conflict in literature?
External conflict in literature refers to a struggle between a character and an outside force, such as another character, nature, society, or a supernatural entity.
How does external conflict drive the plot of a story?
External conflict creates tension and obstacles for characters, propelling the story forward as they work to overcome these challenges.
What are common types of external conflict found in literature?
Common types include character vs. character, character vs. nature, character vs. society, and character vs. supernatural forces.
Can external conflict be combined with internal conflict in a story?
Yes, many stories feature both external and internal conflicts, which together deepen character development and enrich the narrative.
Why is external conflict important in creating tension?
External conflict introduces real obstacles and opposition, which heighten suspense and engage the reader by making the outcome uncertain.
How can understanding external conflict enhance literary analysis?
Analyzing external conflict helps readers understand characters’ motivations, themes, and the overall message of the work.
Are external conflicts always resolved by the end of a story?
Not necessarily; some external conflicts remain unresolved to emphasize themes of ambiguity or ongoing struggles.
Can external conflict reflect real-world issues?
Yes, external conflicts often mirror societal, environmental, or personal struggles, making stories more relatable and meaningful.
