Internal vs External Conflicts

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What is an internal conflict?

Back

An internal conflict is a struggle that takes place within a character's mind. It often involves emotions, thoughts, or decisions that the character must face.

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What is an external conflict?

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An external conflict is a struggle between a character and an outside force, which can be another character, society, nature, or a situation.

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Example of internal conflict: A character feels guilty about lying to a friend. What type of conflict is this?

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Internal Conflict

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Example of external conflict: A character fights against a storm while trying to reach home. What type of conflict is this?

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External Conflict

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Can a conflict be both internal and external?

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Yes, a conflict can involve both internal struggles and external challenges.

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What is a common example of an external conflict in literature?

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A common example is a hero battling a villain or facing societal challenges.

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What is a common example of an internal conflict in literature?

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A common example is a character struggling with self-doubt or moral dilemmas.

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How can internal conflicts affect a character's actions?

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Internal conflicts can lead to indecision, change in behavior, or personal growth as the character resolves their feelings.

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How can external conflicts drive a story forward?

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External conflicts create tension and challenges that characters must overcome, propelling the plot and character development.

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What role does setting play in external conflicts?

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The setting can create obstacles or challenges for characters, influencing the nature of the external conflict.