Conflicting Desires

Definition

Conflicting desires refer to the internal struggle that characters face when they have two or more opposing wants or needs. This concept is essential in creating depth in characters, as it drives their motivations and influences their decisions, ultimately shaping their character arcs. The presence of conflicting desires can lead to significant moments of tension and transformation in storytelling.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Conflicting desires are crucial for character development as they provide a foundation for meaningful decisions and emotional growth.
2. Characters may face conflicting desires between personal goals and societal expectations, highlighting themes of identity and belonging.
3. The resolution of conflicting desires often leads to a turning point in a character's arc, marking their development and change.
4. Writers can use conflicting desires to create dramatic tension and keep the audience engaged in the character's journey.
5. Effective portrayal of conflicting desires can enhance relatability, allowing audiences to connect with characters on a deeper level as they navigate their struggles.

Review Questions

• How do conflicting desires enhance the complexity of a character's motivations?
  • Conflicting desires add layers to a character's motivations by showing that they are not simply driven by one goal or need. Instead, these opposing wants create internal turmoil, forcing characters to make difficult choices that reveal their true selves. This complexity makes characters more relatable and engaging, as audiences can empathize with their struggles and dilemmas.
• Discuss how the resolution of conflicting desires can impact a character arc in storytelling.
  • The resolution of conflicting desires is pivotal in shaping a character's arc. When characters confront and resolve their inner conflicts, it often leads to significant personal growth or change. This journey can transform them from one state of being to another, emphasizing the narrative's themes and allowing for deeper emotional resonance with the audience.
• Evaluate the role of conflicting desires in creating dramatic tension and emotional engagement within a narrative.
  • Conflicting desires play a crucial role in generating dramatic tension by introducing stakes and uncertainty into the narrative. As characters grapple with their opposing wants, it creates suspense around how they will ultimately choose to act. This tension keeps audiences invested in the story while also facilitating emotional engagement as viewers or readers resonate with the struggles and choices that reflect their own experiences with conflicting desires.

Related terms

Motivation: The reasons behind a character's actions and choices, often influenced by their desires and goals.

Character Arc: The transformation or growth that a character undergoes throughout a story, often as a result of their experiences and conflicts.

Internal Conflict:

The psychological struggle within a character, often stemming from conflicting desires or moral dilemmas.