CONFLICT
Conflict is the essence of fiction. It creates plot. The conflicts we encounter can usually be identified as one of four kinds.
Man versus Man
Conflict that pits one person against another.
Man versus Nature
A run-in with the forces of nature. On the one hand, it expresses the insignificance of a single human life in the cosmic scheme of things. On the other hand, it tests the limits of a person’s strength and will to live.
Man versus Society
The values and customs by which everyone else lives are being challenged. The character may come to an untimely end as a result of his or her own convictions. The character may, on the other hand, bring others around to a sympathetic point of view, or it may be decided that society was right after all.
Man versus Self
Internal conflict. Not all conflict involves other people. Sometimes people are their own worst enemies. An internal conflict is a good test of a character’s values. Does he give in to temptation or rise above it? Does he demand the most from himself or settle for something less? Does he even bother to struggle? The internal conflicts of a character and how they are resolved are good clues to the character’s inner strength.
Often, more than one kind of conflict is taking place at the same time. In every case, however, the existence of conflict enhances the reader’s understanding of a character and creates the suspense and interest that make you want to continue reading.
Cite an example of conflict from your current readings by completing the following:
1) State the name of the work of fiction
2) Describe the situation in which conflict taking place
3) Label the type of conflict that is occurring.
Example
1) Into the Wild
2) Chris McCandless goes into the Alaskan wilderness with the goal of surviving off the land; however, his struggle to survive ends tragically.
3) man vs. nature
* note- several other forms of conflict also occur in this novel
3 comments:
1. Mockingjay
2. The Twelve Districts rebel against the oppressive capitol.
3. Man vs Man, primarily. Katniss Everdeen also experiences an abundance of inner conflict.
1. The Gunslinger
2. Roland must catch the man in black in order to get to the Dark Tower.
3. -Man vs. Man (Roland and the man in black)
-Man vs. Nature (In Roland's chase, he must overcome merciless deserts, deadly caves, and seemingly harmless forests.)
-Man vs. Self (Roland befriends a young boy during the journey, but is not one to trust so easily. He must defeat his own fear of losing those that he loves in order to reach his goal.)
1. "The Man to Send Rain Clouds" by Leslie Silko
2. The conflict is between Father Paul and himself. He is not sure whether or not to grant Leons request. He knows that sprinkling the holy water at the grave yard is against the churchs rules, but he feels like he should because he was so close to the old man.
3. This is an example of man vs. self.
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