Conflict is the engine of narrative. It creates tension, reveals character, and sets the plot in motion. Resolution, in turn, provides closure—whether harmonious or unsettling—and clarifies the thematic direction of the text. For IB English A Literature students, understanding how conflict and resolution operate is essential for strong analysis. These elements are not merely structural; they express ideas about human nature, society, and emotional struggle. By analyzing conflict carefully, you can uncover deeper patterns that define the meaning of a text.
Why Conflict Matters
Conflict exposes the forces that shape characters’ decisions and desires. It may arise from within the character, between characters, or between individuals and larger social or natural forces. Writers use conflict to:
- drive plot progression
- reveal values and moral questions
- highlight emotional vulnerabilities
- develop character arcs
- raise thematic issues
When you identify the central conflict and how it evolves, you gain insight into the text’s emotional and intellectual core.
Quick Start Checklist
- Identify the primary conflict (internal, external, or both).
- Track how the conflict escalates or transforms.
- Analyze how the conflict shapes character development.
- Examine the resolution’s emotional or thematic implications.
- Connect conflict to tone, structure, and symbol.
Types of Conflict
Internal Conflict
Internal conflict occurs within a character. It reflects emotional tension, moral dilemmas, or psychological struggles. Internal conflict is often expressed through:
- fragmented narration
- shifts in tone
- contradictory behavior
