6 Basic Character Conflicts 1 2 3 4

6 Basic Character Conflicts 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Character vs. Self Character vs. Nature Character vs. Fate/Luck Character vs. Society Character vs. Technology

PLOT Plot is the literary element that describes the structure of a story. It shows arrangement of events and actions within a story.

PLOT COMPONENTS Climax: the turning point, the most intense moment—either mentally or in action Rising Action: the series of conflicts and crisis in the story that lead to the climax Falling Action: all of the action which follows the climax Resolution: the conclusion, the tying together of all of the threads Exposition: the start of the story, the situation before the action starts

Character vs. Self This is internal conflict The character may need to convince him/herself that he/she can achieve a dream, or maybe the character just needs to build self-confidence.

Character vs. Self EXAMPLE: Aladdin is very poor and wishes for more. He becomes Prince Ali because he doesn’t think he is good enough for Jasmine. Can you give another example from a movie or literature?

Character vs. Character • This is an external conflict between two characters. • The hero's conflict with the villain plays a large role in the plot and contributes to changes in the characters.

Character vs. Character EXAMPLE: The queen is so jealous of Snow White that she disguises herself as an old woman and offers a poisoned apple.

Protagonist vs. Antagonist Protagonist • the main character toward whom the audience is supposed to feel more empathetic (concerned) • not always a “good” person Antagonist • opposition to the protagonist In simple terms, it’s the Hero vs. Villain, but characters are more interesting if they are not simply good vs. evil.

Character vs. Nature • The character is placed against natural forces. • Disaster films and stories about struggling for survival in isolated locations have this theme. Is it an internal or external conflict? Can you give an example?

Character vs. Nature EXAMPLE: In Eight Below, the characters battle the natural environment of Antarctica.

Character vs. Fate • The character has to deal with luck, chance, destiny, or God’s will.

Character vs. Fate • EXAMPLE: Harry has no control over the family legacy he’s been given.

Character vs. Technology • The protagonist has little understanding of and absolutely no control over his/her opponent. • Usually science fiction: computers, robots, etc

Character vs. Technology EXAMPLE: Carmen and Juni find themselves inside a virtual reality video game.

Character vs. Society • The protagonist has to deal with and sometimes breaks laws, rules, or expectations that prevent the character’s growth or progress. • These rules may or may not be correct.

Character vs. Society EXAMPLE: Mulan goes against Chinese tradition and disguises herself as a man in order to be a warrior.

Let’s view a few examples: • Raise your hand. • What conflict do you think is represented?