External conflict is a crucial component of screenwriting because it serves as the plot’s primary motivator. In contrast to internal conflict, which occurs within characters, external conflict occurs outside of characters. In this article, we’ll define external conflict and offer some excellent examples of external conflict.
- Character vs. Character.
- Character vs. Society.
- Character vs. Nature.
- Character vs. Technology.
Types of external conflict
There are a few typical types of external conflict that authors frequently employ in their works. Although there are many different types of conflict in stories, writers and academics classify conflicts into one of these three categories. Here is a list of explanation for these types:
Character vs. nature
An example of an external conflict would be when a character is battling an element of nature, such as an animal, a disease, or a natural disaster. Writers frequently use these kinds of external conflicts to motivate the character and keep the plot of their story interesting while they describe an internal struggle the character is facing because many character versus nature conflicts involve an inanimate force, such as a deadly storm.
Character vs. character
Character versus character conflicts occur when the story’s main character clashes with another. These two characters often have opposing viewpoints. These conflicts are frequently depicted in fictional works about heroes and villains or in romance novels by authors. When authors successfully employ character versus character conflicts, they carefully develop each character so that readers can comprehend the crux of the conflict. In some cases, this might help readers identify with one or both of the characters in the conflict.
Character vs. society
The struggle a character has with the society they live in is represented by professional writers using character versus society conflicts. This often includes corrupt government systems or social norms. Although it is not unique to the genre of dystopian fiction, authors frequently use this kind of external conflict in that work. Authors occasionally personify the societal system through the portrayal of one or more characters when writing character versus society conflicts. For instance, the protagonist of a story about a corrupt government might prioritize taking on a dictator or law enforcement officers.
Character vs. supernatural
Conflicts between characters and supernatural beings frequently resemble conflicts between characters and conflicts with nature. Writers portray a struggle between a protagonist and a supernatural being, such as a monster or ghost, in this kind of conflict. Character versus supernatural conflicts are a common device used by authors in genres like horror and fantasy.
Character vs. fate
The author depicts a conflict between a character and a greater force, such as gods or fate, in character versus fate conflicts. This struggle shapes the characters actions and development. This kind of external conflict is frequently used by authors in mythology-based stories and in the fantasy genre.
Character vs. technology
In character versus technology conflicts, the protagonists experience problems as a result of technology. This external conflict, which is frequent in science fiction genres, frequently features conflicts with robotic or immoral technological developments. This kind of external conflict is frequently combined with other types by authors. For instance, a tale might show a corrupt government over-policing its people with modern technology.
What is an external conflict?
The term “external conflicts” describes literary conflicts that don’t involve the main character. This means that a character must overcome an obstacle brought about by an opposing force in order to create tension and motivation for the main characters. Internal conflict, which refers to the problems characters encounter as a result of mental battles, is the opposite of external conflict.
In many literary genres, authors use external conflicts, and occasionally they even combine internal and external conflict to advance their plot and enthrall their audience.
How to use external conflict
When creating fictional works, using external conflicts frequently aids in the development of an engaging narrative that keeps readers interested in your work. Consider these actions when illustrating external conflict in your writing:
1. Choose what genre you want to write
The kind of external conflict you use in your story can vary depending on the genre you choose to write in. For instance, a character versus supernatural conflict might not be appropriate for your story if you are penning a realistic romance novel. Think about your own interests and the audience you want to write for when deciding which genre to write in.
2. Develop a character
Next, develop the main characters you want to write about. To do this, try writing exercises such as brainstorming sessions. Think about developing the character by asking yourself questions about their motivations, families, and interests. Knowing this information enables you to develop characters that are interesting and realistic. Additionally, it aids in choosing the ideal conflict for your character.
Depending on how you write and organize, you might find it simpler to address this step after step three.
3. Pick a type of external conflict
Prior to beginning your work, decide what external conflict you want to write about in order to maintain consistency throughout your story. Consider your characters and the genre you plan to write in when choosing an external conflict because both have a significant impact on your decision. To choose an external conflict, consider what motivates your characters.
Planning a conflict that lasts for the right amount of time is also crucial. A conflict over a minor argument a character has, for instance, might not be compelling enough to persuade readers to read the entire novel if you are writing one.
4. Develop the conflict throughout your story
Make sure to continue developing your conflict once you’ve decided which kind to use in your story. Conflicts, like characters, are frequently more interesting when they change as the story goes on. Plan out several instances in which your characters deal with the conflict, and try to increase the stakes of the conflict until your story’s climax, to ensure the development of your conflict. This practice also helps keep your audience entertained.
For instance, if your main character is fighting to survive a tsunami in a story with a character versus nature conflict, you might begin the narrative with the character’s preparations and progress to the moment the tsunami strikes or discuss the natural disaster’s aftermath.
Tips for using external conflict
To make the best use of external conflict in your writing, take into account the following advice:
Combine multiple types of conflict
Many writers use multiple types of conflict within their work. Authors frequently include both internal and external conflicts in their works, but they may also combine various external conflicts. An account of a mythical hero and villain, for instance, might feature both a conflict between characters and one with fate.
When authors combine two or more types of conflict, it’s common for one of the types to predominate over the other. This means that after or during the resolution of the first conflict type, the main character may realize they have to deal with a different one. For instance, in a story with two opposing characters, one of them may come to realize that their conflict is actually brought on by the unfair beliefs of their society.
Create secondary conflicts
The minor issues you write about in your literary work are referred to as secondary conflicts. Think about how the main conflict in your work influences other struggles to make your story more interesting. This aids in story development and the creation of minor obstacles that your character must overcome before the work’s climax.
For instance, if you’re writing a story with a character versus supernatural conflict type and the protagonist is haunted by a ghost, consider the specific problems the ghost might bring about, such as possessing someone or interfering with the protagonist’s sleep schedule.
Relate conflict and character development
Consider how each instance of conflict affects your characters as you develop your story and conflict. The growth of characters and the conflict in the story are frequently linked by writers. This implies that throughout the course of the narrative, conflicts and characters both develop. For instance, a character may develop leadership skills or address another internal conflict as they struggle against an oppressive social norm.
Plan a resolution
While some authors prefer to work impulsively, it often helps to prepare your conflict’s resolution in advance. This enables you to weave in foreshadowing and suspenseful elements throughout the narrative. Plan your story’s resolution and climax by deciding whether you want your main character to prevail in their struggle. It’s also helpful to think about how the conflict affects your characters.
Make a story map
Consider creating a story map or outline to aid in developing your conflicts and outlining your narrative. Using this tool, you can create a document that contains the key events of your story. Refer to this document as you write to help you set objectives. Concentrate on developing the next plot point every time you finish writing about one. This technique ensures that each scene you write has a purpose and can help some writers develop their story more quickly.
Internal vs. External Conflict
FAQ
What are the 5 types of external conflict?
- Man vs. Man. The most common form of external conflict is man vs.
- Man vs. Nature. Natural disasters or other phenomena are frequently used in literature to derail the protagonist.
- Man vs. Society. …
- Man vs. Technology. …
- Man vs. Animal.
What are the 6 types of external conflict?
- Character vs. nature. …
- Character vs. character. …
- Character vs. society. …
- Character vs. supernatural. …
- Character vs. fate. …
- Character vs. technology. …
- Choose what genre you want to write. …
- Develop a character.
What are 3 types of external conflict?
Three Types of External Conflict character, character vs. nature, and character vs. society. Character vs.
What’s an example of external conflict?
The fish, a marlin, and the old man, Santiago, are engaged in a significant external conflict. For several days, they engage in back-and-forth combat and a tug of war without either of them giving up. Santiago must also contend with the forces of nature in order to catch a massive fish and the sharks that are attacking his prized marlin.
