A Quick Note on Types of Conflict in Literature for the Novice Writer
by Ryker J. Phoenix
Conflict is one of the major themes in literature, and it is essential for the development of the plot and characters in stories. Conflict acts as a catalyst, creating tension and suspense, and it helps to engage readers by generating curiosity about the eventual outcome of the story. There are various types of conflicts in literature, and understanding them is essential for analyzing and interpreting literary works effectively.
Man vs. Self Conflict is the most common type of conflict prevalent in literature. This kind of conflict occurs as a result of internal struggles that characters face within themselves. In such conflicts, a character's thoughts, feelings, fears and internal dilemmas are pitted against each other. In this type of conflict, the characters are presented with difficult choices and decisions, which they must make. For example, in William Shakespeare’s "Hamlet," the protagonist Hamlet's decision to take revenge on his father's killer is an example of a man vs. self-conflict. He battles his conscience and doubts whether he should go ahead with his revenge plans, or instead focus on getting on with his life.
Man vs. Man Conflict is another type of conflict found in literature. In such conflicts, two or more characters are in opposition to each other, resulting in intense competition or rivalry. This kind of conflict is often fueled by differences in values, beliefs, personalities, or goals of the characters. For instance, in Harper Lee’s "To Kill a Mockingbird," the main character Scout battles with Bob Ewell's daughter Mayella, who accuses Scout's father of rape, which he did not commit. Scout and Mayella are pitted against each other, and they both defend their sides vigorously, leading to a dramatic and intense conflict.
Man vs. Nature Conflict is also quite common in literature. This type of conflict typically features a character struggling with the elements of nature, such as weather, animals or illness. In this type of conflict, the character is in a battle against a natural force, which may act as an obstacle or an enemy. For example, in "The Old Man and The Sea” by Ernest Hemingway, the protagonist, Santiago, battles a huge marlin in the ocean for three days, leading to a win or lose situation for the old man.
Man vs. Society Conflict is another popular conflict in literature. In this type of conflict, a character is in opposition to the norms, values or traditions of society. This conflict often arises as a result of differences in class, culture, race, or gender. For example, in "To Kill a Mockingbird," Attie, the protagonist, faces societal pressures and prejudices as he defends a black man in court during a racially charged period in history.
Man vs. Technology Conflict is also becoming a more prevalent conflict featured in literature, with the advancements in technology present in modern society. In this type of conflict, a character struggles with a machine, device or computer system, which is often portrayed as a menacing force competing against humanity. This conflict is often used in Science Fiction literature, such as George Orwell's "1984," in which the protagonist, Winston, battles a futuristic society controlled by artificial intelligence.
In conclusion, conflict plays a significant role in literature, and the different types of conflict form the building blocks of various literary works. Understanding these types of conflicts is essential for analyzing and interpreting literature effectively. Whether it is man vs. self, man vs. man, man vs. nature, man vs. society or man vs. technology, conflict remains a powerful and necessary tool that creates the tension and suspense needed to keep readers engaged and interested in a story.
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