internal conflict vs. external conflict
[in-tur-nl kon-flikt]
/ ˈɪn tɜr nl ˈkɒn flɪkt /
noun
-
psychological struggle within the mind of a literary or dramatic character, the resolution of which creates the plot's suspense.
Hamlet's inaction is caused by internal conflict.
-
mental struggle arising from opposing demands or impulses.
[ek-stur-nl kon-flikt]
/ ˈɛk stɜr nl ˈkɒn flɪkt /
noun
-
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.
-
struggle between a person and an outside force.
external conflict between parents and children.
