As a literature expert, I would like to delve into the concept of external conflict, which is a critical element in storytelling. External conflict is the struggle between a character and an external force or entity. This force can be another character, nature, society, technology, or any other factor outside the protagonist's control. It is a driving force that propels the plot forward and adds tension and drama to the narrative.

Examples of External Conflict:


1. Man vs. Man: This is the most straightforward form of external conflict, where the protagonist is in direct opposition with another character. A classic example is the rivalry between Macbeth and Macduff in Shakespeare's "Macbeth." Macbeth's ambition and desire for power lead him to commit heinous acts, while Macduff stands as a symbol of justice and honor, opposing Macbeth's tyranny.


2. Man vs. Society: This type of conflict arises when the protagonist is at odds with societal norms or expectations. For instance, in Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird," Atticus Finch faces societal prejudice and racism as he defends a black man falsely accused of a crime.


3. Man vs. Nature: Here, the protagonist battles against the forces of nature. The struggle for survival against the harsh Alaskan wilderness is a central theme in Jack London's "The Call of the Wild."


4. Man vs. Technology: As technology advances, so do the conflicts it can create. In Mary Shelley's "Frankenstein," the conflict between Victor Frankenstein and his creation is a result of the misuse of scientific knowledge and the ethical implications of creating life.


5. Man vs. Fate: This conflict involves the protagonist's struggle against predetermined destiny or fate. In Homer's "The Iliad," Achilles must confront his destiny as a great warrior, which is also tied to his tragic end.

6. **External Conflict between Parents and Children**: This is a common theme in literature where the generational gap, differing values, or parental expectations create conflict. In J.D. Salinger's "The Catcher in the Rye," Holden Caulfield's struggle with his parents' expectations and his own identity is a central part of the narrative.

7.
Man vs. Supernatural: Supernatural forces can also serve as an external conflict. In "Dracula" by Bram Stoker, the characters must band together to defeat the supernatural villain, Count Dracula.

8.
Man vs. Self: Although this is technically an internal conflict, it can also manifest externally when the character's internal struggle leads to actions that conflict with external forces. In "Hamlet" by Shakespeare, Hamlet's internal turmoil over whether to avenge his father's death leads to external conflict with the kingdom of Denmark.

Each of these examples showcases how external conflict can take various forms and serve as a catalyst for character development, plot progression, and thematic exploration. Understanding and identifying these conflicts is essential for analyzing literature and appreciating the depth and complexity of storytelling.

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external conflict. struggle between a literary or dramatic character and an outside force such as nature or another character, which drives the dramatic action of the plot: external conflict between Macbeth and Macduff. ... external conflict between parents and children.read more >>