What is Conflict in a story ? Types With Examples

Every story, no matter how big or small, needs movement. That movement often comes from conflict, the tension that pushes characters to make choices, face challenges, and grow. Without conflict, a story risks becoming flat, with nothing to keep readers turning the page.

Conflict in storytelling isn’t always about epic battles or heated arguments. Sometimes, it’s as quiet as a character doubting themselves or as subtle as an unspoken tension in a relationship. Whether loud or soft, conflict is what gives a story shape and keeps it alive. It’s one of the seven key elements of story, working alongside plot, character, setting, and theme to build strong narratives.

In this guide, we’ll explore what conflict means in literature, why it matters, the different types of conflict, and how to write it effectively. We’ll also look at famous examples that bring this element to life and highlight common mistakes to avoid. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for weaving conflict into your own stories, whether you’re writing an epic fantasy or a quiet slice-of-life piece.

1. What Is Conflict in Storytelling?

At its core, conflict in literature is the struggle that drives a story forward. It’s the clash between opposing forces, whether internal (within a character’s mind) or external (against another character, society, nature, or even fate). Without conflict, there’s no reason for characters to act and no reason for readers to stay invested.

It helps to distinguish conflict from related terms:

• Plot is the sequence of events in a story.
• Tension is the suspense or emotional pull that makes readers curious.
• Conflict is the obstacle or challenge that generates that tension and shapes the plot.

This distinction dates back to Aristotle’s Poetics, where he emphasized that drama and storytelling thrive on struggle. More recently, writers and critics have refined this definition, but the core idea remains unchanged: conflict is the heartbeat of narrative.

For example, a story plot without conflict would look more like a list of events than a compelling narrative. A character goes to the market, buys bread, and returns home. That’s a sequence, but it’s not a story. Add a conflict, say, the character struggles with whether to steal the bread because they can’t afford it, and suddenly the narrative has weight, meaning, and moral depth.

2. Why Is Conflict Important?

Conflict is the engine of storytelling. It creates tension, sets stakes, and keeps readers engaged because they want to see how challenges are resolved. Without conflict, stories risk feeling flat or uneventful, offering no reason for the reader to care about what happens next.

One of the biggest reasons conflict is essential is its relationship with character development. When characters face obstacles, they’re forced to make choices that reveal their strengths, weaknesses, and values. For example, a protagonist who struggles with self-doubt (internal conflict) may grow in confidence after facing trials, while one confronted with an external rival may discover hidden resilience. In this way, conflict becomes the crucible in which characters are shaped and transformed.

Conflict also ties directly to the theme. Stories use struggle to illustrate deeper meanings, whether it’s about justice, freedom, love, or ambition. In The Great Gatsby, the conflicts between Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom highlight themes of class and the illusion of the American Dream.

It’s also useful to compare conflict-driven and conflict-free stories. Conflict-driven narratives, like The Hunger Games, rely on constant tension to move forward, while more reflective or slice-of-life stories might minimize overt conflict. Still, even in quieter narratives, subtle forms of tension such as internal doubts or unspoken desires are usually present. In short, conflict isn’t optional; it’s the heartbeat that makes a story resonate.

3. Types of Conflict in Literature

Writers often categorize conflicts into internal (inside a character) and external (between the character and outside forces). Each type brings a unique flavor to storytelling, shaping both plot and theme.

Internal Conflict (Man vs Self)

Internal conflict occurs when a character wrestles with emotions, doubts, or moral dilemmas. Shakespeare’s Hamlet is a classic example: Hamlet’s hesitation and self-questioning drive much of the drama. Similarly, Holden Caulfield in The Catcher in the Rye struggles with identity and disillusionment, reflecting the universal challenge of finding meaning in life. Internal conflicts add depth because they make characters feel real, relatable, and imperfect.

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External Conflicts

1. Man vs Man
Perhaps the most recognizable conflict, this pits one character directly against another. Think Harry Potter vs. Voldemort: their rivalry defines the overarching narrative and provides high stakes for the wizarding world. Rivalries, betrayals, and confrontations all fall under this category, making it a staple of drama, thrillers, and fantasy alike.

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2. Man vs Nature
Here, the struggle is against the forces of the natural world. In Herman Melville’s Moby-Dick, Captain Ahab battles the great whale, a symbol of both nature’s might and humanity’s obsession. Likewise, Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea portrays the relentless challenge of survival against the sea’s vast indifference. These conflicts emphasize humanity’s vulnerability and resilience.

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3. Man vs Society
This conflict highlights the tension between individuals and societal structures, laws, or norms. The Hunger Games dramatizes a rebellion against an oppressive system, while The Great Gatsby illustrates the clash between individual ambition and rigid social class boundaries. These conflicts often critique cultural values or explore themes of justice and freedom.

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4. Man vs Fate/Destiny
Some stories suggest that characters cannot escape destiny, no matter how they try. In Oedipus Rex, Oedipus struggles against a prophecy that he will kill his father and marry his mother, a fate he fulfills despite every attempt to avoid it. These conflicts raise questions about free will versus inevitability.

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5. Man vs Technology
Increasingly relevant in modern storytelling, this conflict pits humans against machines, innovations, or artificial intelligence. Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is an early example, where the monster symbolizes the dangers of unchecked scientific ambition. Today, works like The Matrix or Ex Machina continue exploring this theme, questioning the relationship between humanity and technology.

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In practice, many stories blend these types of conflict. A single novel may include both internal struggles and external battles, giving the narrative richness and complexity. Recognizing these categories helps writers understand the different ways conflict can shape storytelling and gives readers insight into why certain stories resonate so strongly.

4. How to Write The Conflict In Your Story

Writing conflict isn’t just about throwing obstacles in a character’s way like crazy; it’s about crafting tension that feels meaningful and drives the story forward. Here’s a practical, step-by-step approach:

Step 1: Identify the Central Conflict

Start by asking: What is the biggest problem my protagonist faces? Is it survival, self-doubt, or resistance against an antagonist? This central conflict will anchor the story. In The Hunger Games, Katniss’s conflict with the Capitol defines everything that follows.

Step 2: Create Stakes That Matter

Conflict only works when readers care about the outcome. Make the stakes clear: what happens if the protagonist fails? Stakes can be personal (saving a loved one), societal (freedom for a community), or existential (survival).

Step 3: Balance Internal and External Struggles

Strong stories combine inner battles with outer challenges. For example, Frodo in The Lord of the Rings fights against external forces (Sauron’s armies) while also struggling internally with the corrupting power of the Ring. This duality keeps conflict layered and engaging.

Step 4: Escalate the Tension

Conflict should build as the story progresses. Small disagreements or challenges at the start can grow into major showdowns later. Think of Freytag’s Pyramid: rising action leads to a climax. Each new obstacle should push the protagonist further, forcing growth and change.

Step 5: Use Subplots to Reinforce Conflict

Subplots are not just side stories; they can add depth to the main conflict. In Pride and Prejudice, Elizabeth’s interactions with minor characters (Charlotte, Mr. Collins) highlight her internal and external struggles with love, pride, and societal expectations.

Step 6: Resolve the Conflict with Purpose

Resolution doesn’t always mean victory. Sometimes the protagonist loses, but learns something vital. The key is to ensure the outcome feels earned and consistent with the story’s theme. In Romeo and Juliet, the tragic ending resolves the conflict but leaves readers reflecting on the destructive power of feuds.

Step 7: Revise to Strengthen Impact

Ask yourself: Does every scene push the conflict forward? Cut anything that doesn’t serve this purpose. Watch out for plot holes, weak stakes, or conflicts that resolve too easily.

For writers who struggle to keep track of layers of conflict, visual mapping Feature in AuthorFlows will defenitly help organize story arcs, ensuring conflicts build naturally without losing cohesion.

5. Five Mistakes When Writing Conflict

Even skilled writers can stumble when crafting conflict. Here are some of the most common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

1. Flat or Nonexistent Conflict

A story without tension feels like a diary entry. If characters face no obstacles, readers have no reason to stay engaged. Always ask: What’s at risk?

2. Overcomplicating the Conflict

On the flip side, some stories overload the narrative with too many competing conflicts. This can confuse readers and dilute the impact of the main struggle. Focus on one central conflict and allow subplots to support it rather than distract.

3. Predictable or Forced Resolutions

Readers can spot clichés from miles away. A last-minute rescue or a villain with no depth can make conflict feel cheap. Instead, aim for resolutions that grow organically from the characters’ choices.

4. Inconsistent Conflict Arcs

If the stakes fluctuate without reason, the story loses momentum. Ensure conflict escalates naturally and doesn’t fizzle out mid-story.

5. Ignoring the Link Between Character and Conflict

Conflict works best when it’s personal. A battle against society or nature means little unless we see how it affects the character emotionally. Always connect external struggles to inner change.

By being mindful of these pitfalls, writers can create conflicts that not only entertain but also resonate with readers on a deeper level.

6. FAQs About the Conflict

What are the 4 main types of conflict in literature?
The most commonly recognized types are Man vs. Self, Man vs. Man, Man vs. Nature, and Man vs. Society. Some modern interpretations also include Man vs. Technology and Man vs. Fate.

Why is conflict important in a story?
Conflict creates stakes, keeps readers engaged, and drives both plot and character development. Without it, stories risk feeling flat or uneventful.

What is an example of internal conflict?
Hamlet in Shakespeare’s play wrestles with doubt, hesitation, and moral duty. His inner struggle is as gripping as his external conflict with Claudius.

Can a story exist without conflict?
Technically, yes, but most stories without conflict feel more like vignettes or atmosphere pieces. While literary experiments exist, conflict remains central to storytelling traditions because it creates momentum.

You might want to check the examples of stories with no conflict in our guide about the structure with no conflict

What is the difference between conflict and plot?
Plot is the sequence of events in a story, while conflict is the engine that propels those events. Without conflict, a plot risks becoming a series of disconnected actions.

How to balance conflict in character-driven stories?
Even when characters take center stage, their growth should be tied to meaningful obstacles. Blend external challenges with internal struggles so the character arc feels authentic and layered.

Wrapping Up

Conflict is the heartbeat of storytelling. It shapes characters, drives plot, and gives readers a reason to turn the page. Whether it’s an internal battle with self-doubt or an external clash with society, conflict ensures stories resonate with emotional depth and urgency.

Writers should view conflict not as a formula but as a tool that can be layered, escalated, and resolved in countless ways. Experiment with both internal and external struggles: let your protagonist wrestle with fear while also facing real-world challenges. When done well, conflict doesn’t just entertain; it transforms both characters and readers.

As you craft your stories, remember that effective conflict comes from choices, stakes, and consequences. A well-built conflict pushes characters to grow and highlights the themes that matter most in your narrative.

To organize and visualize your conflicts, how they tie into characters, plot, and theme, consider using AuthorFlows. It helps you map story arcs, track character development, and avoid the pitfalls of flat or inconsistent conflict.

For a broader perspective, see how conflict connects to other story elements in our guide: 7 Key Elements of Story.