What Is The Definition Of External Conflict

External conflict: it's the battle you see playing out on the surface, the kind that makes for dramatic storytelling. Think of duels at dawn, courtroom showdowns, or even a simple disagreement with a neighbor. But understanding external conflict goes beyond just identifying it; it's about dissecting its role in driving a narrative, revealing character, and exploring universal themes. It's the engine that propels the plot forward, the visible manifestation of deeper, often unseen, tensions. This article delves into the definition of external conflict, exploring its various forms, its function in storytelling, and how it differs from its internal counterpart.

External conflict, at its core, is a struggle between a character and an outside force. This force can take many forms: another character, society, nature, or even the supernatural. It's the tangible obstacle that stands in the way of the protagonist achieving their goals. Unlike internal conflict, which simmers within a character's mind and heart, external conflict is visible, audible, and often violent. It's the clash of wills, the fight for survival, the struggle against injustice, and the pursuit of victory against seemingly insurmountable odds.

Comprehensive Overview

To truly grasp the definition of external conflict, it's essential to break down its components and examine its various manifestations:

• Character vs. Character: This is perhaps the most common and readily identifiable type of external conflict. It involves a direct confrontation between two or more characters, whether it's a physical brawl, a verbal sparring match, or a strategic game of manipulation. The conflict arises from opposing goals, conflicting ideologies, or simply a clash of personalities. Examples abound in literature and film, from the epic battles between good and evil in The Lord of the Rings to the simmering tensions between rival families in Romeo and Juliet.

• Character vs. Society: This type of conflict arises when a character's beliefs, values, or actions clash with the norms, laws, or expectations of the society in which they live. The character may be fighting against injustice, discrimination, or oppression, or they may simply be an outsider who refuses to conform. This conflict often explores themes of social justice, conformity, and the individual's role in society. Examples include To Kill a Mockingbird, where Atticus Finch defends an innocent black man in a racially prejudiced town, and 1984, where Winston Smith rebels against the totalitarian regime of Oceania.

• Character vs. Nature: This conflict pits a character against the forces of nature, whether it's a raging storm, a harsh desert, or a deadly animal. The character must use their skills, ingenuity, and resilience to survive against the elements. This type of conflict often explores themes of survival, human limitations, and the power of nature. Examples include The Old Man and the Sea, where Santiago battles a giant marlin, and Into the Wild, where Christopher McCandless struggles to survive in the Alaskan wilderness.

• Character vs. Supernatural: This conflict involves a character facing forces beyond the natural world, such as ghosts, demons, gods, or magic. The character may be fighting for their life, their soul, or the fate of the world against these otherworldly adversaries. This type of conflict often explores themes of faith, morality, and the unknown. Examples include The Exorcist, where a young girl is possessed by a demon, and Harry Potter, where Harry battles the dark wizard Lord Voldemort.

• Character vs. Technology: A more modern form of external conflict, this pits a character against the creations of humanity. It could involve a struggle against artificial intelligence, a malfunctioning machine, or the unforeseen consequences of technological advancement. This type of conflict often explores themes of technological dependence, the dangers of unchecked progress, and the definition of humanity in a technologically advanced world. Examples include The Terminator, where a cyborg assassin is sent from the future to kill Sarah Connor, and Black Mirror, an anthology series exploring the dark side of technology.

• Character vs. Fate/Destiny: This less common, but still powerful, form of external conflict involves a character struggling against a predetermined course of events or an unavoidable outcome. The character may try to defy their destiny, but ultimately, they are either forced to accept it or meet a tragic end. This type of conflict often explores themes of free will, determinism, and the nature of existence. Examples include Oedipus Rex, where Oedipus unknowingly fulfills a prophecy that he will kill his father and marry his mother, and Final Destination, where a group of people try to cheat death after surviving a catastrophic accident.

The significance of external conflict extends far beyond mere action sequences. It serves as a catalyst for character development, a vehicle for exploring complex themes, and a crucial element in shaping the overall narrative. By understanding the different types of external conflict and their functions, writers can create more compelling and meaningful stories.

Tren & Perkembangan Terbaru

The way external conflict is portrayed in modern storytelling continues to evolve, reflecting contemporary anxieties and social issues. Here are some notable trends:

• Blurring Lines Between External and Internal Conflict: Increasingly, writers are exploring the interconnectedness of external and internal conflict. The external challenges a character faces often trigger internal struggles, and vice versa. For example, a character fighting against social injustice may also grapple with feelings of self-doubt and fear.

• Focus on Systemic Conflict: Modern narratives often highlight systemic issues as the primary source of external conflict. Instead of focusing solely on individual villains, stories may explore the corrupt institutions, biased systems, and ingrained prejudices that perpetuate conflict.

• Complex Antagonists: The traditional black-and-white portrayal of good versus evil is becoming less common. Modern antagonists are often complex characters with their own motivations and justifications, making the external conflict more nuanced and morally ambiguous.

• Emphasis on Psychological Impact: Contemporary stories often delve into the psychological impact of external conflict on characters. They explore the trauma, stress, and emotional toll that conflict can take, highlighting the long-term consequences of violence and adversity.

• Use of Technology as a Conflict Driver: With the increasing prevalence of technology in our lives, it's no surprise that it's playing a larger role in external conflict. Stories now explore the dangers of cyber warfare, the ethical dilemmas of artificial intelligence, and the social consequences of online surveillance.

These trends reflect a growing awareness of the complexities of conflict and a desire to explore its impact on individuals and society as a whole.

Tips & Expert Advice

As a content creator and educator, I've observed several common pitfalls that writers fall into when dealing with external conflict. Here are some tips to avoid them:

• Don't Rely Solely on Physical Conflict: While action sequences can be exciting, external conflict should not be limited to physical battles. Verbal sparring, strategic maneuvering, and subtle acts of sabotage can be just as compelling and revealing. Think about the underlying power dynamics and motivations of the characters involved.

• Ensure Conflict Serves a Purpose: Every instance of external conflict should contribute to the overall narrative. It should reveal character, advance the plot, or explore a relevant theme. Avoid gratuitous conflict that serves no purpose other than to add excitement.

• Escalate the Conflict Gradually: A story with constant high-stakes conflict can become exhausting and lose its impact. Escalate the conflict gradually, building tension and raising the stakes as the story progresses. Consider using a series of smaller conflicts to lead up to a major showdown.

• Make the Conflict Believable: Even in fantastical settings, external conflict should be grounded in believable motivations and consequences. Ensure that the characters' actions and reactions are consistent with their personalities and the established rules of the world.

• Show, Don't Tell: Instead of simply stating that a character is in conflict with another character or force, show it through their actions, dialogue, and interactions. Let the conflict unfold organically, allowing the reader to experience it firsthand.

• Remember the Internal: External conflict is almost always intertwined with internal conflict. Use external challenges to reveal the character's inner struggles, fears, and desires. The most compelling stories explore both the external and internal dimensions of conflict.

By following these tips, writers can create more compelling and meaningful external conflict that enhances their stories and resonates with readers.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

• Q: How does external conflict differ from internal conflict?

  • A: External conflict is a struggle between a character and an outside force, while internal conflict is a struggle within a character's own mind and heart.

• Q: What are the main types of external conflict?

  • A: The main types are character vs. character, character vs. society, character vs. nature, character vs. supernatural, character vs. technology, and character vs. fate/destiny.

• Q: Why is external conflict important in storytelling?

  • A: It drives the plot forward, reveals character, explores themes, and creates tension and suspense.

• Q: Can a story have only external conflict, or only internal conflict?

  • A: While it's possible, the most compelling stories typically have both, as they are often intertwined.

• Q: How can I create believable external conflict?

  • A: Ground the conflict in believable motivations and consequences, and ensure that the characters' actions are consistent with their personalities.

Conclusion

External conflict is the visible face of struggle in storytelling, the outward manifestation of the challenges and obstacles that characters face. It encompasses a wide range of confrontations, from personal clashes to societal battles, and serves as a powerful tool for driving the narrative, revealing character, and exploring universal themes. Understanding the definition of external conflict and its various forms is crucial for any writer seeking to create compelling and meaningful stories. By carefully crafting the external challenges that characters face, writers can engage readers on an emotional level, create suspense, and ultimately deliver a satisfying and thought-provoking experience.

How do you think the portrayal of external conflict will continue to evolve in the future, especially in light of emerging technologies and shifting social landscapes? Are you inspired to try incorporating more nuanced and complex forms of external conflict into your own creative work?