3.3.2. External Conflict

External conflict involves a character's struggle against an outside force. This can manifest in several ways:

External conflict occurs when a character faces challenges or opposition from forces outside themselves. These external forces can include other characters, societal norms, nature, or fate. Understanding this type of conflict is fundamental to comprehending how characters are tested and how their actions drive the narrative forward. External conflicts can be categorized into various types, which highlight the different dynamics of struggle that characters may face, each producing distinct narrative effects.

Imagine a sports team (the main character) competing against another team (the opposing force), which would be like a character facing off against an enemy or rival in a play. The struggles they encounter, such as working through strategy, team dynamics, or injuries, create external conflict that drives the whole season — much like how external conflicts propel the plot in storytelling.

● Man vs. Man: This is the most common form of external conflict in drama, involving direct opposition between two or more characters, whose goals, personalities, or ideologies clash. This can range from a heated argument to a physical confrontation. ● Man vs. Society: Here, a character or group of characters finds themselves in opposition to the prevailing norms, laws, values, or institutions of their society. This often explores themes of rebellion, conformity, justice, and social inequality.

The two main types of external conflict are 'Man vs. Man' and 'Man vs. Society'. In 'Man vs. Man', the conflict arises from a direct competition or disagreement between characters, which can escalate into confrontations. For example, consider plays like 'Romeo and Juliet', where the family feud between the Montagues and Capulets embodies this conflict type. Meanwhile, 'Man vs. Society' highlights how individual characters challenge societal norms or confront large institutions. A modern example is 'Chicago', where characters navigate issues of justice and morality vs. corrupt societal structures.

Think of 'Man vs. Man' as a courtroom drama where two lawyers (characters) face off against each other, presenting their arguments (their ideologies) to convince a jury (the audience or society). Meanwhile, 'Man vs. Society' can be likened to a protest movement where individuals band together against policies they see as unjust, representing their struggle against the societal framework.

● While less frequently the primary focus in traditional stage drama, conflict can also extend to Man vs. Nature (struggle against environmental forces) or Man vs. Fate/Supernatural (struggle against predetermined destiny or otherworldly powers), adding elements of epic struggle or philosophical inquiry.

In addition to 'Man vs. Man' and 'Man vs. Society', external conflicts can also occur when characters confront nature or fate. 'Man vs. Nature' explores how characters deal with natural disasters or environmental challenges, while 'Man vs. Fate/Supernatural' involves conflicts with destiny or supernatural elements, reflecting on themes like free will and predestination. These conflicts can deepen the narrative by introducing larger, existential themes, showcasing how human beings confront formidable challenges that are often beyond their control.

Picture a character stranded on a deserted island (a natural challenge) in a story about survival. Their inability to find food or shelter creates 'Man vs. Nature' conflict. Alternatively, consider a character grappling with a prophecy that dictates their future (like in Greek mythology) — that's 'Man vs. Fate' where they struggle against a predetermined outcome, enhancing the drama’s psychological depth.

Identifying these various types of conflict and analyzing how they unfold, escalate, and ultimately resolve (or deliberately remain unresolved) provides deep insight into the play's narrative progression, its thematic concerns, and the playwright's commentary on the human condition.

Recognizing different forms of external conflict helps in understanding how the plot develops and the deeper meanings within a play. Analyzing how conflict is presented allows us to see how characters evolve, what themes emerge, and how the resolution (or lack thereof) reflects on human nature and societal issues. This analysis doesn't just enhance comprehension; it enriches our appreciation of the playwright's artistic intentions and thematic explorations.

Think of a novel where external conflicts mirror societal struggles, such as in 'To Kill a Mockingbird', where the external struggles against racial injustice propel the story forward. The resolution of these conflicts isn't always straightforward; it might reflect real-life complexities, leaving audiences to ponder important societal questions long after the final curtain.

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