External Obstacle

Definition

An external obstacle is a force or condition outside of a character that hinders their ability to achieve their objectives in a scene. These obstacles can come from other characters, societal norms, physical settings, or situational constraints. Understanding external obstacles is crucial in scene work as they create tension and drive the action, shaping how characters interact and respond to challenges.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External obstacles can be physical barriers, such as locked doors or geographical distances, that prevent characters from reaching their goals.
2. Social pressures or expectations can also serve as external obstacles, influencing how characters behave and what choices they make.
3. Other characters can act as external obstacles by opposing a character's goals, creating conflict that propels the narrative forward.
4. The identification of external obstacles helps actors create more dynamic and engaging performances by focusing on how these challenges impact their characters' actions.
5. Effective scene work requires actors to understand both their character's objectives and the external obstacles they face to create authentic emotional responses.

Review Questions

• How do external obstacles shape a character's actions within a scene?
  • External obstacles directly impact a character's ability to achieve their objectives, forcing them to adapt and respond creatively to challenges. For instance, if a character faces an opposing force or physical barrier, they may need to devise new strategies or seek assistance from others. This interaction not only reveals the depth of the character but also heightens the tension and stakes in the scene, making it more engaging for the audience.
• Discuss the relationship between external obstacles and character development in scene work.
  • External obstacles play a significant role in character development by revealing how individuals cope with challenges. As characters encounter these obstacles, their responses can highlight their strengths, weaknesses, and growth. For example, a character who initially appears timid may find courage when faced with an external obstacle, leading to a transformation that enriches the narrative and provides audiences with a deeper understanding of their journey.
• Evaluate the importance of effectively integrating external obstacles with internal conflicts in creating compelling scenes.
  • Integrating external obstacles with internal conflicts is essential for crafting compelling scenes because it adds layers of complexity to character interactions. When a character is faced with both an external challenge and an internal struggle, the tension escalates as they navigate not just what they want but also what they fear or desire on a deeper level. This duality makes performances more relatable and authentic, allowing audiences to connect with the characters' experiences on multiple emotional fronts.

Related terms

Internal Conflict:

A psychological struggle within a character, often resulting from opposing desires or emotions.

Objective:

The goal or aim a character strives to achieve in a scene, often driving their actions and decisions.

Action: The physical or emotional behaviors that characters exhibit in pursuit of their objectives, often influenced by obstacles.