AFL1502
Assignment 2
Semester 2
2024
, Question 1
(a) Explanation of the term ‘conflict’ in a modern novel or drama
In literature, particularly in modern novels and dramas, conflict refers to a struggle
between opposing forces within a story that drives the plot and develops characters.
This struggle may take various forms, including:
1. Internal Conflict: This type of conflict occurs within a character's mind. It is a
psychological struggle that the protagonist experiences regarding decisions, desires,
or emotions. For example, a character may battle their fear of failure versus their
desire for success.
2. External Conflict: This is the struggle between a character and outside forces,
which can include other characters, society, or nature. For instance, in a fictional
narrative, a character might face societal pressure that prohibits them from
expressing their true identity, creating a clash with cultural norms.
3. Character vs. Character Conflict: This form of conflict occurs when two characters
have competing goals or ideologies. It’s the classic protagonist-antagonist conflict,
such as a hero striving to save others while a villain seeks to impose chaos or
destruction.
4. Character vs. Society Conflict: In this scenario, an individual struggles against
societal norms, laws, or beliefs. A character may fight for social justice or confront
prejudice, highlighting the theme of individualism versus conformity.
5. Character vs. Nature Conflict: This type of conflict often places characters in
opposition to natural forces. Examples include characters battling harsh weather,
wild animals, or natural disasters, which serve to test their survival instincts and
resilience.
Conflicts serve as the foundation for character development and thematic exploration,
making them essential to storytelling. Through the resolution of conflict, readers gain
insights into the complexities of human nature and the nuanced experiences of life.
Assignment 2
Semester 2
2024
, Question 1
(a) Explanation of the term ‘conflict’ in a modern novel or drama
In literature, particularly in modern novels and dramas, conflict refers to a struggle
between opposing forces within a story that drives the plot and develops characters.
This struggle may take various forms, including:
1. Internal Conflict: This type of conflict occurs within a character's mind. It is a
psychological struggle that the protagonist experiences regarding decisions, desires,
or emotions. For example, a character may battle their fear of failure versus their
desire for success.
2. External Conflict: This is the struggle between a character and outside forces,
which can include other characters, society, or nature. For instance, in a fictional
narrative, a character might face societal pressure that prohibits them from
expressing their true identity, creating a clash with cultural norms.
3. Character vs. Character Conflict: This form of conflict occurs when two characters
have competing goals or ideologies. It’s the classic protagonist-antagonist conflict,
such as a hero striving to save others while a villain seeks to impose chaos or
destruction.
4. Character vs. Society Conflict: In this scenario, an individual struggles against
societal norms, laws, or beliefs. A character may fight for social justice or confront
prejudice, highlighting the theme of individualism versus conformity.
5. Character vs. Nature Conflict: This type of conflict often places characters in
opposition to natural forces. Examples include characters battling harsh weather,
wild animals, or natural disasters, which serve to test their survival instincts and
resilience.
Conflicts serve as the foundation for character development and thematic exploration,
making them essential to storytelling. Through the resolution of conflict, readers gain
insights into the complexities of human nature and the nuanced experiences of life.
