Types of Conflict

What is Conflict? A conflict is a struggle between opposing forces. There are two main kinds of conflict in stories: internal and external.

Why is Conflict Important? Without conflict, there is NO PLOT! It’s introduced in the rising action, faced head on during the climax, works itself out in the falling action, and is solved in the resolution See next page!

Internal Conflict: Character vs. Self A struggle that takes place in a character's mind is called internal conflict. Example - a character may have to decide between right and wrong or between two solutions to a problem. Sometimes, a character must deal with his or her own mixed feelings or emotions.

Examples of Internal Conflicts Looking into a mirror and feeling unattractive Being embarrassed of your parents, your house, your clothes, and even your friends Adapting to a new school and new friends

External Conflict A struggle between a character and an outside force. Characters may face several types of outside forces.

Types of External Conflict Character vs. Character Character vs. Nature Character vs. Society

Types of External Conflicts Character vs. Character – Conflict involves a struggle (either mental or physical between two characters) Protagonist (good) Vs. Antagonist (bad) ex. - Harry Potter vs. Voldemort

Character vs. Nature Conflict involves a struggle between a character and elements of nature that are beyond his/her control, usually a fight to survive ex. – Hatchet – Brian is attacked by a moose, weather elements are a problem - a tornado or hurricane destroying homes and affecting character’s lives

Character vs. Society Conflict involves a struggle between a character and the rules/laws that govern the society in which he/she lives ex. – Confessions of Charlotte Doyle – female trying to fit in to a male dominated profession / job - arranged marriage - racism

Other Types of Conflict Character vs. Supernatural Character vs. Fate Character vs. Machine

Character vs. Supernatural Conflict involves a struggle between a character and something that is above or beyond what is natural ex. – Jade Green – a ghost story - Twilight - vampires

Character vs. Fate Conflict involves a struggle between a character and something that is out of their control. ex. – protagonist finds out they have a rare disease - “A Crush” – Ernie’s mom passes away and he has to learn to live in group home

Character vs. Machine Conflict involves a struggle between a character and a robotic force. - movie – The Terminator

Is it internal or external? Type? The Wizard of Oz A League of Their Own Lincoln Wreck it Ralph

A Recap: Which type of conflict is in your book? Internal Conflict  Character vs. Self External Conflict  Character vs. Character  Character vs. Nature  Character vs. Society Other Conflict  Character vs. Supernatural  Character vs. Fate  Character vs. Machine