Conflict in Literature: Definition, Types, and Examples

What is Conflict in Literature?

Conflict is the driving force of most stories. It creates tension, suspense, and makes the reader invested in the outcome. Conflict can be internal, occurring within a character’s mind, or external, involving characters interacting with the world around them.

Types of Conflict

There are many different types of conflict, but some of the most common include:

Person vs. Self: A character struggles with their own inner thoughts, beliefs, or desires.
Person vs. Person: Two or more characters have opposing goals or motivations.
Person vs. Society: A character clashes with the rules, norms, or values of their society.
Person vs. Nature: A character faces challenges from the natural world, such as weather, animals, or illness.

Examples of Conflict in Literature

Here are some examples of conflict in literature:

Person vs. Self: In Shakespeare’s Hamlet, the titular character struggles with indecision and self-doubt as he contemplates revenge against his uncle Claudius.

Person vs. Person: In Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy clash over their differing social statuses and personalities.

Person vs. Society: In Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch defends an innocent black man in a racially segregated society.

Person vs. Nature: In Jack London’s The Call of the Wild, Buck, a domesticated dog, faces the challenges of surviving in the harsh wilderness of Alaska.

Conclusion

Conflict is an essential element of literature. It creates tension, suspense, and drives the story forward. By understanding the different types of conflict and how they are used in literature, readers can gain a deeper appreciation for the complexity and power of storytelling.

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