At the end of exploration, the learner is expected to:
Define and differentiate between the various types of conflict found in the literature.
Synthesize their knowledge by engaging in presentations, or written reflections, that demonstrate their comprehension of how conflicts shape narratives and resonate with real-life experiences.
Apply their understanding of conflict types by discussing and dissecting excerpts from various texts, identifying the underlying conflicts and their implications.
Conflict is the clash of opposing forces with a character pursuing a goal. The character must overcome these opposing forces to achieve the goal. These opposing forces might take on numerous shapes and exist solely within the character’s psyche.
In literature, particularly in short stories, conflict is a crucial element that drives the narrative forward. It's used to reveal a deeper meaning in the narrative while highlighting the characters’ motivations, values, and weaknesses. Here are some types of conflicts you might find:
Person vs. Person: This is the most common type of conflict, often depicted as a struggle between good and evil, right and wrong. It involves two characters against each other.
Person vs. Self: Also known as internal conflict, this is where a character struggles with their own conflicting desires or emotions. It's a psychological struggle within the character's mind.
Person vs. Society: In this type of conflict, a character or a group of characters fight against the society in which they live.
Person vs. Nature: This involves a struggle between a character and a natural force, such as weather or animal life.
Person vs. Supernatural: This is a conflict where a character or characters fight against elements of the supernatural or paranormal.
Person vs. Technology: This type of conflict involves a struggle between a character and a form of technology.
Person vs. Fate: This is a conflict where a character tries to break free and make their own choices, while fate works against their efforts.
These conflicts can be used individually or combined to create a complex and engaging narrative in your short story.
EXAMPLES OF PHILIPPINE SHORT STORIES WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONFLICT
Type of Conflict: Man vs. Himself
Synopsis: The protagonist, Alfredo Salazar, experiences an internal conflict as he grapples with his feelings for two women, Esperanza and Julia. His struggle with his desires and societal expectations drives the narrative.
Types of Conflict: Man vs. Man, Man vs. Himself, Man vs. Fate
Synopsis: This story depicts the conflict between Agueda and Anastasia, two women separated by generations, as they struggle with societal expectations and the pursuit of love. Agueda's internal conflict with her perception of love and fate adds depth to the narrative.
Types of Conflict: Man vs. Society, Man vs. Himself
Synopsis: In this story, the conflict arises from the clash of cultural values and the tension between generations. Consorcio, the protagonist, grapples with his identity and heritage as he struggles to reconcile the traditional values of his ancestors with the modern world.
Type of Conflict: Man vs. Himself, Man vs. Society
Synopsis: The protagonist, a young boy named Victor, experiences an internal conflict as he grapples with his desire for material wealth and his moral values. Set against the backdrop of poverty and social inequality in the Philippines, the story highlights the struggle to maintain one's integrity in the face of societal pressures.
SHORT VIDEO DISCUSSION ABOUT DIFFERENT TYPES OF CONFLICTS
https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/types-of-conflict
Glatch, S. (2022, July 5). What is Conflict in a Story? Definition and Examples. Writers.com. https://writers.com/what-is-conflict-in-a-story