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05.23.2025
Have any stories ever totally captivated you? All of it comes down to conflict; you cannot stop flipping the pages and excitedly awaiting what will happen next. Every great story has conflict, the element that shakes the narrative, tests the characters, and keeps readers riveted to the page. There is no tale, no drama, no suspense without conflict.
But why does conflict matter so much and exactly what is it? Simply said, conflict is the fight between opposing forces. It's the reason your characters have something to fight for, against, or even fight within themselves. Tension generated by conflict drives action and finally helps to shape the whole story. Stories live in part from this.
We shall explore the seven distinct forms of conflict that you will discover in literature in this post. Understanding these tensions can help you comprehend what drives a story forward and, even better, how to make your own writing more engaging whether you are producing your own stories or reading for pleasure. Let's get going!
What is Conflict in Literature?
Conflict in Literature
Conflict is not only a necessary component of literature. It is the very thing that makes stories interesting, significant, and unforgettable. It keeps readers interested, tests characters, and offers lessons. Whether internal or external, conflict defines the entire narrative, giving it purpose and direction. Ask yourself then, the next time you are reading or writing: What conflict exists here, and how is it advancing everything?
Every great story's pulse is conflict. Fundamentally, conflict in literature is a struggle—a collision of opposing forces producing tension and maintaining the plot forward motion. A story cannot develop without conflict as then is not justified. It's the flame that drives them to overcome obstacles, make difficult decisions, and grow personally.
There are several ways that conflict can manifest itself, and knowing its subtleties will help one both in reading and in composing outstanding stories. It might be internal, occurring in a character's head as they fight their own doubts, anxieties, or aspirations. Alternatively it could be external, in which the individual is set against forces outside herself, such as another person, society, environment, or even fate.
Both times, conflict is necessary since it reflects real-life challenges. Everybody has times when they are challenged, when things do not go as planned, or when they have to face difficult facts. Likewise, literature catches these common challenges, which increases the relevance and appeal of stories.
Why is Conflict Important?
1. It creates suspense and tension
Your hookedness is maintained via conflict. This is the reason you find it impossible to quit viewing a movie or drop a book. Whether it's a moral conundrum or a life-or-death choice, the audience wonders what will happen next when characters find themselves in the middle of a trying circumstance. Conflict is made so fascinating by its suspenseful quality. It gives the narrative complexity and keeps you engaged as you track the character through their challenges.
Every great narrative creates this suspense by means of conflict, therefore increasing the significance. The hero will beat the villain? Will the protagonist conquer their anxiety? When it comes time, the tension increases the gratification value of the payback.
2. It encourages character development
Conflict reveals our characters and their development in addition to keeping the story along. The way a character responds to the challenges they encounter exposes their values, personality, and viewpoint. Do they, for instance, meet the task or collapse under duress? Do they keep on repeating their mistakes or grow from them?
Think about the expansion of Harry Potter. Though he starts out as a confused, lonely lad, he must address his own flaws and worries. Every challenge drives him toward confidence and maturity. Only because of the conflicts he faces is that metamorphosis possible.
Conflict tests characters help us to see them grow, which is why their paths are so interesting and fulfilling. Characters would stay still and the narrative would seem flimsy without conflict.
3. It generates themed depth
Conflict typically mirrors more general problems—moral, intellectual, or social ones that give the narrative its greater significance. For books like The Hunger Games or 1984, Character vs Society confrontations, for instance, probe crucial issues regarding freedom, control, and revolt. They inspire readers to consider their surroundings closely and with critical eye.
Conflict involves ideas and themes as much as it does the character overcoming a barrier. For example, the conflict in The Great Gatsby is about the American Dream and the emptiness it can bring as much as Gatsby's search of Daisy. Conflict in this form builds up a discussion between the reader and the story, stimulating reflection and debate.
4. It advances the plot forward
In a tale, nothing would happen without struggle. Characters would just live in a world free of obstacles, no stakes, and no justification for action. Conflict is basically what propels the story. It generates a demand for the character to act, decide, and aim for something. Conflict drives characters to make decisions that move the narrative whether they are seeking to correct a wrong, flee from danger, or fix a mistake.
Consider the way The Lord of the Rings presents things. One clear objective of Frodo is to destroy the One Ring. He cannot, however, accomplish that without overcoming challenges including opponents, difficult terrain, and personal uncertainty. Whether his internal struggle against his own fear of failure or an exterior one against Sauron, conflict drives every action he makes toward the goal. Frodo wouldn't even start his voyage without such confrontations.
Internal vs External Conflict
When it comes to conflict in literature, there are two broad categories: internal conflict and external conflict. Both play important roles, but they differ in where the conflict occurs and how it affects the character.
What is Internal Conflict?
Internal conflict occurs when a character struggles with their own thoughts, emotions, or decisions. This type of conflict is deeply psychological and often involves a character facing dilemmas like moral choices, self-doubt, or fear.
- Illustrative Example: In The Great Gatsby, Jay Gatsby is torn between his idealized love for Daisy and the reality of their relationship. His inner battle over whether to pursue a dream that is ultimately unattainable causes him to make destructive choices. Gatsby’s internal conflict between hope and disillusionment is what leads to his tragic end.
- Importance of Internal Conflict: Internal conflicts make characters more complex and relatable. We all face struggles within ourselves, whether it’s deciding between right and wrong, trying to balance ambition with contentment, or simply dealing with self-doubt. These kinds of conflicts bring a story’s emotional depth and make readers root for the character as they navigate their inner world.
- How to Approach Writing Internal Conflict:To write strong internal conflict, dig into your character’s emotions and fears. Ask yourself, What does this character want? What’s stopping them from achieving it?
What is External Conflict?
External conflict, on the other hand, involves a character battling against external forces — other people, nature, society, or even technology. These are the visible struggles that propel the plot forward and create action.
- Illustrative Example: In To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch faces external conflict against the deeply racist society of Maycomb as he defends Tom Robinson, an innocent man accused of rape. The trial itself is a representation of the conflict between individual moral beliefs and societal norms.
- Importance of External Conflict: External conflicts test a character’s strength and willpower in the face of challenges beyond their control. It could be society's laws, a dangerous enemy, or nature’s fury. These conflicts usually make up the action-packed moments in stories, where characters face dangers, make life-changing decisions, or fight for what they believe in.
- How to Approach Writing External Conflict:Think about how the outside world is shaping your character’s choices. What’s standing in the way of them achieving their goal, and why? External conflicts are often a reflection of the world around the character — whether it’s family pressure, societal expectations, or physical threats.
The 7 Types of Conflict in Literature
Now that we understand the difference between internal and external conflict, let’s dive into the seven types of conflict that commonly appear in literature. These categories help us better analyze how a character is challenged and how they grow throughout a story.
1. Character vs Character: The Rivalry
One of the most straightforward and engaging types of conflict, Character vs Character, is when two characters are in direct opposition. These characters usually want the same thing, but only one can have it. The conflict here is often a battle of wits, strength, or moral beliefs.
Example: In Sherlock Holmes, Sherlock Holmes and Professor Moriarty represent the ultimate intellectual battle. Their rivalry drives the plot, with Holmes always trying to outsmart Moriarty, who is plotting to defeat him. Another great example is Elizabeth Bennet vs. Mr. Darcy in Pride and Prejudice. Their initial misunderstandings, prejudices, and different values create tension that is only resolved through growth and mutual understanding.
Why It’s Interesting: This type of conflict is relatable to anyone who’s experienced rivalry, competition, or a moral disagreement with another person. These confrontations are often packed with tension, making them exciting to read or watch.
Tip: Make sure both characters in a Character vs Character conflict have clear goals and motivations. A strong antagonist (like Moriarty) is just as important as the protagonist.
2. Character vs Society: The Rebellion
In Character vs Society, the protagonist struggles against social norms, laws, or cultural expectations. This conflict often explores themes of rebellion, justice, and individuality.
Example: Winston Smith in 1984 fights against the oppressive government of Oceania, which controls every aspect of life. His desire for freedom and truth leads him to question the authoritarian regime, despite knowing the personal cost. In The Hunger Games, Katniss Everdeen challenges the Capitol’s brutal system by volunteering for the Games in place of her sister. Throughout the series, she becomes a symbol of rebellion and resistance.
Why It’s Interesting: This type of conflict taps into real-world issues like freedom of speech, inequality, and human rights. It often raises questions about morality, power, and the consequences of challenging authority.
Tip: Consider the values of society in your story. What is considered "right" or "wrong"? How does your character challenge those views, and what do they risk by doing so?
3. Character vs Nature: Surviving the Elements
When a character is pitted against nature’s power — whether it’s a storm, a wild animal, or the harsh environment — that’s Character vs Nature. This conflict often focuses on survival and the struggle to adapt to the natural world.
Example: In Moby Dick, Ishmael and the crew of the Pequod face the sea’s unpredictable nature as they chase the elusive white whale. Their battle with the ocean is as much about survival as it is about obsession. In The Revenant, Hugh Glass is forced to survive in the unforgiving wilderness after being left for dead. His fight against nature is brutal and relentless.
Why It’s Interesting: Nature’s power is immense and uncontrollable. This type of conflict shows the character’s resilience and resourcefulness in the face of overwhelming odds.
Tip: Use vivid descriptions of nature to emphasize the challenge. The setting itself can become a character in the story — its power or beauty is often symbolic of the internal conflict your character faces.
4. Character vs Technology: Man vs Machine
As technology evolves, so does the conflict between humans and their creations. Character vs Technology deals with the fear or struggle of humans facing machines, artificial intelligence, or technological advances that they cannot control.
Example: In I, Robot, Del Spooner grapples with his distrust of robots, questioning whether they could one day overthrow humanity. In 2001: A Space Odyssey, Dave Bowman faces HAL 9000, a super-intelligent AI that begins to see humans as threats.
Why It’s Interesting: As technology rapidly advances, this conflict feels more relevant. It explores the ethical dilemmas of technological progress and whether it is outpacing humanity’s ability to control it.
Tip: Think about how technology challenges human relationships, autonomy, and morality. In many stories, technology isn't just an antagonist; it's a reflection of human nature and our desire for control.
5. Character vs Supernatural: The Unknown
In Character vs Supernatural, the character faces forces beyond the natural world — ghosts, gods, monsters, or magical phenomena. This conflict often deals with mysticism and fear of the unknown.
Example: In Dracula, Jonathan Harker and his friends struggle against the supernatural forces of the vampire Dracula. Similarly, in Hamlet, the ghost of Hamlet’s father sets the stage for a conflict that goes beyond mere mortal understanding.
Why It’s Interesting: Supernatural conflicts tap into universal fears and mysteries, from the afterlife to the unknown powers that might exist beyond our understanding.
Tip: Use the supernatural to symbolize internal conflicts or societal anxieties. Often, the real battle isn’t just against the ghost or monster, but what it represents (fear, guilt, unresolved issues).
6. Character vs Fate: The Struggle Against Destiny
In Character vs Fate, characters struggle against a predetermined destiny or fate. They may try to avoid it, but ultimately, they find themselves caught in the forces of destiny.
Example: In Oedipus Rex, Oedipus tries to avoid the prophecy that he will kill his father and marry his mother, but despite his efforts, fate comes to pass. In Macbeth, Macbeth fights against the witches' prophecy, but his ambition ultimately leads him to fulfill it.
Why It’s Interesting: This conflict brings up deep philosophical questions about free will, destiny, and the inevitability of fate. It’s tragic because the characters can’t escape their fate, no matter how hard they try.
Tip: Use foreshadowing to hint at the inevitable. This can build tension and make the eventual outcome more impactful.
7. Character vs Self: The Deepest Struggle
Character vs Self is the most profound conflict because it involves a character battling against their own emotions, beliefs, or desires. It’s the internal struggle that makes a character’s journey relatable.
Example: Hamlet’s internal conflict about avenging his father’s death is a classic example. His indecision and moral questioning make the conflict rich and complex. Raskolnikov in Crime and Punishment battles with his guilt after committing murder, and his struggle with his conscience drives much of the novel.
Why It’s Interesting: This conflict is the most personal. We all deal with internal struggles like self-doubt, guilt, or conflicting desires, which is why readers connect deeply with characters experiencing this type of conflict.
Tip: Dive into the character’s thoughts and feelings. Show the internal dialogue, the doubts, and the emotional turmoil they experience.
Tips for Writing Conflict in Your Own Stories
| Conflict Type | Writing Tips |
|---|---|
| Character vs Character | Develop strong motivations for both characters. Give each one a clear goal and make them equally compelling. |
| Character vs Society | Explore societal norms and how they limit the protagonist. Use setting and social structures to highlight tension. |
| Character vs Nature | Focus on sensory details to convey the harshness or beauty of nature. Show the character’s struggle to adapt. |
| Character vs Technology | Highlight the dangers or consequences of technological advancements. Create a tension between progress and humanity. |
| Character vs Supernatural | Use the supernatural to reflect inner fears or societal issues. Build suspense with an eerie atmosphere. |
| Character vs Fate | Use foreshadowing to hint at destiny. Show the character’s internal struggle with their supposed fate. |
| Character vs Self | Develop deep emotional conflicts. Let the character’s internal debate shape their actions and growth. |
Final Say
Conflict is what makes stories exciting, memorable, and meaningful. Whether it’s a fight against another person, society, fate, or even themselves, conflict is at the heart of every great story. By understanding these different types of conflict, you can better appreciate the stories you read and create richer, more compelling narratives in your own writing.
FAQ
What is conflict in literature?
Conflict is a struggle between opposing forces that creates tension and drives the plot forward.
How many types of conflict are there in literature?
There are seven main types: Character vs Character, Society, Nature, Technology, Supernatural, Fate, and Self.
Why is conflict important in stories?
Conflict creates tension and forces characters to make tough choices, which leads to growth and development.
Can a story have more than one type of conflict?
Yes, most stories feature multiple types of conflict to add complexity and depth.
How can I create believable conflict in my writing?
Focus on what your character wants, what’s stopping them from getting it, and how they change through the conflict.
