What is External Conflict? ⚔️
External conflict (pronounced ek-STER-nuhl KON-flikt) is a literary device where a character faces opposition from an external force. This can be another character, society, nature, or a physical obstacle. External conflict is crucial for driving the plot and creating tension within a story.
How Writers Use External Conflict ✍️
Writers use external conflict to:
- Drive the Plot: External conflicts propel the narrative forward by creating obstacles the protagonist must overcome.
- Develop Characters: Facing external conflicts forces characters to grow and develop.
- Create Tension: Conflicts between characters or forces create suspense and keep readers engaged.
- Highlight Themes: External conflicts often reflect broader themes and societal issues.
Types of External Conflict 📝
| Type | Example | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Character vs. Character | Harry Potter vs. Voldemort in Harry Potter | Conflict between two characters. |
| Character vs. Society | Katniss vs. The Capitol in The Hunger Games | Conflict between a character and societal norms or structures. |
| Character vs. Nature | Pi vs. the Ocean in Life of Pi | Conflict between a character and natural forces. |
| Character vs. Technology | John Connor vs. The Terminators in Terminator | Conflict between a character and technological forces. |
| Character vs. Supernatural | Dr. Frankenstein vs. His Creation in Frankenstein | Conflict between a character and supernatural elements. |
External Conflict Rules 📏
| Rule | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Clear Stakes | Clearly define what is at stake for the characters. |
| Relatable Motivations | Ensure characters have believable motivations. |
| Consistent Tension | Maintain conflict throughout the story to keep tension high. |
| Resolution | Provide a satisfying resolution to the conflict. |
| Depth and Complexity | Add layers to the conflict to make it more engaging and realistic. |
Examples in Literature, Poetry, Songs, Movies, and Advertising
External Conflict in Literature 📚
External conflict is a cornerstone of many literary works, providing the primary source of tension and driving the plot. Here are some famous examples:
| Author | Work | Example |
|---|---|---|
| J.K. Rowling | Harry Potter Series | Harry Potter vs. Voldemort |
| Harper Lee | To Kill a Mockingbird | Atticus Finch vs. Racism in Maycomb |
| Herman Melville | Moby Dick | Captain Ahab vs. Moby Dick |
External Conflict in Children’s Books 📖
In children’s literature, external conflict makes stories more engaging and relatable for young readers:
| Author | Work | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Dr. Seuss | The Lorax | The Once-ler vs. Environmental Destruction |
| Roald Dahl | Matilda | Matilda vs. Miss Trunchbull |
| C.S. Lewis | The Chronicles of Narnia | The Pevensie siblings vs. The White Witch |
External Conflict in Poetry ✒️
Poets use external conflict to explore broader themes and emotional struggles:
| Poet | Poem | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Wilfred Owen | Dulce et Decorum Est | Soldiers vs. The Horrors of War |
| Robert Frost | Mending Wall | Neighbor vs. Neighbor over the Wall |
| Langston Hughes | Harlem | Individuals vs. Deferred Dreams |
External Conflict in Songs 🎶
Songwriters use external conflict to tell compelling stories and convey powerful messages:
| Artist | Song | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Bob Dylan | Hurricane | Rubin Carter vs. Injustice |
| Johnny Cash | Folsom Prison Blues | Prisoner vs. Incarceration |
| The Beatles | Revolution | Individuals vs. Societal Change |
External Conflict in Movies 🎬
External conflict is a driving force in many films, creating dramatic tension and engaging audiences:
| Movie | Scene | Example |
|---|---|---|
| The Dark Knight | Batman vs. The Joker | Batman’s struggle against the chaos caused by The Joker |
| Titanic | Jack and Rose vs. The Sinking Ship | The protagonists’ fight for survival during the shipwreck |
| The Martian | Mark Watney vs. Mars | The protagonist’s struggle to survive alone on Mars |
Batman vs. The Joker – The Dark Knight
Jack and Rose vs. The Sinking Ship – Titanic
Mark Watney vs. Mars – The Martian
External Conflict in Advertising 📢
Marketers use external conflict to create memorable and impactful advertisements:
| Brand | Ad Campaign | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Nike | Find Your Greatness | Individuals overcoming physical and mental challenges |
| Coca-Cola | Share a Coke | Bringing people together in a divided world |
| Apple | Think Different | Challenging the status quo with innovative technology |
FAQs about External Conflict
What is external conflict in literature? 🤔
External conflict is a literary device where a character faces opposition from an external force, such as another character, society, nature, or technology.
How do you write a good external conflict? 🖊️
To write a good external conflict, clearly define the stakes, ensure characters have relatable motivations, maintain consistent tension, provide a satisfying resolution, and add depth and complexity to the conflict.
Can external conflict be used in modern writing? 📘
Yes, external conflict is a fundamental element in modern writing, essential for creating dynamic and engaging narratives across various genres.
Are external conflict and internal conflict the same? ❓
No, external conflict involves opposition from outside forces, while internal conflict involves a struggle within a character’s mind or emotions.
Related Devices 📚
Internal Conflict
A struggle occurring within a character’s mind or emotions.
Antagonist
A character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict.
Tension
The suspense and excitement that build up in a narrative as the conflict unfolds.
Climax
The peak of the narrative tension where the main conflict reaches its most critical point.
By mastering the use of external conflict, you can create dynamic and engaging stories that captivate your readers and drive your plot forward! 🌟