External conflict

Definition

External conflict refers to the struggle between a character and an outside force, which can include other characters, societal norms, or nature. In the context of storytelling, this type of conflict is crucial as it creates tension and drives the narrative forward, allowing audiences to engage more deeply with the brand's message and values.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. External conflict helps to create a dynamic storyline that can captivate an audience's attention and make them emotionally invested in the brand's narrative.
2. Different types of external conflicts include man vs. man, man vs. society, and man vs. nature, each providing unique challenges for characters to overcome.
3. Using external conflict in brand storytelling allows brands to showcase their values and mission through the challenges faced by their characters or representatives.
4. Brands that effectively incorporate external conflict often resonate more with consumers, as they can see reflections of their own struggles in these narratives.
5. The resolution of external conflicts can lead to powerful brand messages about perseverance, resilience, or innovation, reinforcing the brand's identity.

Review Questions

• How does external conflict enhance the emotional engagement of an audience in brand storytelling?
  • External conflict enhances emotional engagement by presenting relatable struggles that audiences can connect with. When characters face challenges from outside forces, such as societal expectations or competition, it resonates with viewers' personal experiences. This connection allows brands to foster a deeper relationship with their audience, making their messages more impactful and memorable.
• Discuss how different types of external conflicts can influence a brand's narrative strategy.
  • Different types of external conflicts influence a brand's narrative strategy by determining the themes and challenges presented in their storytelling. For example, a 'man vs. society' conflict may highlight issues like social justice or environmental concerns, aligning the brand with causes important to its audience. In contrast, 'man vs. man' conflicts could emphasize competition or rivalry within an industry. Each type shapes how the brand communicates its values and engages with its target audience.
• Evaluate the impact of resolving external conflict on brand perception and consumer loyalty.
  • Resolving external conflict can significantly enhance brand perception and consumer loyalty by showcasing the brand's commitment to overcoming challenges. When audiences see a brand or its characters successfully navigate external struggles, it fosters a sense of trust and admiration. This narrative resolution not only reinforces the brand's identity but also cultivates an emotional bond with consumers, encouraging long-term loyalty as customers feel aligned with the brand's journey and values.

Related terms

internal conflict: Internal conflict is the psychological struggle within a character, often involving emotions, decisions, or moral dilemmas that impact their actions and development.

tension: Tension is the sense of urgency or suspense that keeps the audience engaged, often built through conflicts and challenges faced by the characters.

protagonist: The protagonist is the main character in a story, typically facing conflicts that drive the plot and evoke emotional responses from the audience.