Think of it like this: An external conflict is a character battling something outside of themself, like a villain, a natural disaster, or a societal issue. An internal conflict, however, is a battle going on within the character's own heart and mind.
Here are some common examples of internal conflict:
* Man vs. Self: The most common type, this involves a character struggling with their own emotions, beliefs, or desires. Examples:
* A character struggling with guilt over a past mistake.
* A character torn between two different paths in life.
* A character battling their own fear or insecurity.
* Moral Dilemmas: When a character faces a difficult choice with no easy answer, leading to inner turmoil. Examples:
* A character who has to choose between loyalty to their family and the law.
* A character who must decide whether to tell the truth and risk harming someone else.
* Identity Crisis: This involves a character questioning their sense of self, their place in the world, or their purpose. Examples:
* A character trying to find their true identity after a traumatic event.
* A character struggling to define themselves in the face of societal expectations.
Internal conflict is essential for compelling storytelling because it:
* Adds depth and complexity to characters: It makes characters more relatable and human, allowing readers to connect with their struggles.
* Drives the plot forward: The choices a character makes in response to their internal conflict can create pivotal moments and shape the story's direction.
* Raises thought-provoking questions: Internal conflict often touches on universal themes of morality, ethics, and the human condition.
Examples of internal conflict in literature:
* Hamlet: Hamlet's famous "To be or not to be" soliloquy is a perfect example of a character grappling with the internal conflict of contemplating suicide.
* The Great Gatsby: Jay Gatsby struggles with the internal conflict of wanting to win back his lost love while simultaneously battling his own guilt and disillusionment.
* To Kill a Mockingbird: Scout Finch grapples with the internal conflict of understanding the prejudice and injustice she witnesses in her community.
By understanding internal conflict, you can better appreciate the nuances of character development and the complexities of human experience in literature.