Conflict

Definition

Conflict is a struggle or clash between opposing forces, ideas, or characters that drives a narrative forward. In visual storytelling, conflict is essential as it creates tension and engages the audience, making the story compelling and dynamic. Without conflict, a narrative can feel flat or uninteresting, as there’s little to motivate characters or evoke emotional responses from viewers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflict can be internal (within a character) or external (between characters or forces), both of which are crucial for character development and plot advancement.
2. In visual storytelling, conflict often manifests through visuals such as contrasting colors, dynamic camera angles, and character expressions to illustrate tension.
3. Effective conflict not only captures attention but also allows for themes and messages to emerge more clearly through the resolution of these struggles.
4. Conflict should escalate over time to maintain audience engagement; this is often achieved through increasing stakes and complications.
5. Different genres utilize conflict in unique ways; for example, a comedy might focus on misunderstandings while a thriller may emphasize life-threatening situations.

Review Questions

• How does conflict contribute to character development in visual storytelling?
  • Conflict plays a crucial role in character development by presenting challenges that characters must face and overcome. These struggles often reveal their motivations, strengths, and weaknesses, allowing audiences to connect with them on a deeper level. As characters navigate conflicts, they may grow and change, making their journeys relatable and engaging for viewers.
• Analyze how different types of conflict can change the tone and direction of a story in visual media.
  • Different types of conflict, such as internal versus external conflicts, can significantly alter the tone and direction of a story. Internal conflicts often lead to introspective moments that can create a somber or thoughtful atmosphere, while external conflicts tend to drive action and excitement. The way these conflicts are presented visually—through pacing, sound design, and cinematography—also influences how audiences perceive the overall narrative experience.
• Evaluate the impact of unresolved conflict on audience engagement and thematic development in storytelling.
  • Unresolved conflict can leave audiences feeling dissatisfied or confused, negatively affecting their engagement with the story. However, it can also provoke thought and discussion about the themes presented. When conflicts remain unresolved, they may highlight complex societal issues or human emotions that resonate on a deeper level. This approach can enrich thematic development by inviting viewers to reflect on the implications of the conflicts portrayed, potentially leading to more profound interpretations.

Related terms

Resolution: The part of a narrative where the conflict is resolved, providing closure to the story.

Protagonist: The main character in a story who faces conflict and drives the plot forward.

Antagonist: The character or force that opposes the protagonist, creating conflict in the story.