First Paper Due 1014 Guidelines Conflict The Struggle Which ✓ Solved
First Paper Due 1014 Guidelinesconflict The Struggle Which Grows O
First Paper (due 10/14) Guidelines Conflict: The struggle which grows out of the interplay of the two opposing forces in a PLOT. It is conflict which provides the elements of interest and suspense in any form of FICTION, whether it be a DRAMA, A NOVEL, or a SHORT STORY. At least one of the opposing forces is usually a person, or, if an animal or an inanimate object, is treated as though it were a person. This person, usually the PROTAGONIST, may be involved in conflicts of four different kinds: (1) he/she may struggle against the forces of nature; (2) against another person, usually the ANTAGONIST; (3) against society as a force; or (4) two elements within him/her may struggle for mastery (internal, psychological conflict and turmoil). A fifth possible kind of conflict is often cited, the struggle against Fate or destiny. Seldom do we find a simple, single conflict in a PLOT, but rather a complex one partaking of two or even all of the elements given above. Hibbard, Addison & William Flint Thrall, A Handbook to Literature. Rev. and enlarged C. Hugh Holman. New York: Odyssey Press, 1960.
Sample Paper For Above instruction
The exploration of conflict within literature reveals its fundamental role in shaping narrative tension and driving character development. This essay examines the manifestation of conflict in two selected works—William Golding’s "Lord of the Flies" and Kate Chopin’s "The Storm"—highlighting the types most pertinent to each story. Both texts illustrate complex layers of conflict that reflect human nature, societal influence, and internal struggles, demonstrating how conflict serves as an essential element in storytelling and thematic exploration.
Conflict in "Lord of the Flies"
Golding’s "Lord of the Flies" vividly exemplifies conflict by weaving multiple layers of opposition, chiefly the struggle against society and the internal conflicts among characters. On a surface level, the boys' descent into savagery embodies a conflict against societal norms and order—when the social contract they initially attempt to establish collapses, the inherent barbarity within humans is laid bare. The protagonists, Ralph and Jack, symbolize opposing forces: Ralph’s desire to maintain civility and order contrasts sharply with Jack’s embrace of primal instincts and chaos. The conflict between these characters and their opposing drives encapsulates external conflicts of human nature versus societal expectation, as well as internal conflicts within the characters themselves—particularly Jack’s internal struggle between civilization and savagery.
Furthermore, the overarching conflict against nature manifests in the boys' struggle for survival on a deserted island. Their efforts to find shelter, maintain fire, and fend off the threat of external dangers illustrate human vulnerability when disconnected from societal support. Golding emphasizes that the primary conflict is not merely external but rooted in the internal human condition—an internal psychological battle between civility and primal instincts, which is exemplified by characters’ actions and choices throughout the narrative.
Conflict in "The Storm"
Kate Chopin’s "The Storm" predominantly explores conflict between societal expectations and personal desires, showcasing internal conflicts and conflicts against natural forces. The story revolves around Calixta and Alcée, whose brief romantic encounter occurs during a storm—a metaphor for internal passions that challenge societal moral standards. The storm itself symbolizes natural force and internal emotional upheaval, a conflict that disrupts the characters' mundane lives but also allows for the acknowledgment and acceptance of natural human instincts.
On the surface, the story depicts an external conflict with societal norms—adultery and morality—which is ultimately resolved in favor of personal happiness, suggesting a complex interplay of internal conflict and societal restraint. Calixta’s internal struggle revolves around her desires versus her social role as a wife and mother, while Alcée grapples with societal expectations of fidelity. The storm acts as an external force that frees characters to indulge in their passions, illustrating human conflict with societal rules while emphasizing the importance of internal harmony.
These conflicts enhance the story’s themes of natural human instincts and societal constraints, demonstrating how internal struggles are often intertwined with external circumstances—highlighting the timeless tension between personal freedom and societal morality.
Conclusion
Both "Lord of the Flies" and "The Storm" exemplify complex conflicts that are pivotal in their narratives. While Golding’s work predominantly features external conflicts against societal decay and nature, it also underscores internal psychological battles that challenge human morality. Conversely, Chopin’s story foregrounds internal conflicts and external natural forces that collide with societal expectations, ultimately advocating for personal emotional freedom.
These explorations underscore the multifaceted nature of conflict in literature, illustrating that most stories are driven by a confluence of internal and external struggles. Understanding the types of conflicts present enhances our appreciation of how authors depict human nature and societal dynamics, reinforcing conflict’s vital role in compelling storytelling and thematic depth.
References
- Golding, W. (1954). Lord of the Flies. Faber & Faber.
- Chopin, K. (1898). The Storm. The Complete Works of Kate Chopin, Louisiana State University Press.
- Hibbard, G. H., Jr., & Thrall, W. F. (1960). A Handbook to Literature. Odyssey Press.
- Bloom, H. (Ed.). (2008). William Golding’s Lord of the Flies (Bloom's Modern Critical Interpretations). Chelsea House.
- Harrison, M. (1978). The Evolution of Conflict in Literature. Princeton University Press.
- Vanderbilt, T. (2011). Literature and Conflict: A Critical Overview. Oxford University Press.
- Foster, C. (2012). Exploring Literary Conflict. Routledge.
- Chopin, K. (1994). The Complete Works of Kate Chopin. Library of America.
- Heath, S. (2004). The Role of Internal Conflict in Literature. Cambridge Scholars Publishing.
- Wilkinson, J. (2010). Literary Themes and Conflict Analysis. Palgrave Macmillan.