Ah…character conflicts. Nothing brings a reader closer to words than visualizing two or more members of the story in a swirling storm of tensions, opposing forces colliding on any occasion, leading up to a climactic battle to see who is truly the better. Views and perspectives on freedom, law, of even just life itself get tangled in webs that create storylines, memorable moments that spawn lengthy conversations both in-person, and on social media. But, how do you know which ones are best to keep readers reading? I’ve compiled a small, yet highly informative, list of ways characters challenge each other, keeping the intrigue of the story at maximum points.
One vs. One
The most utilized conflict, it is also the most basic. A protagonist fulfills their moral obligation to challenge an antagonist. This type of matchup also can refer to a single person acting against a group, such as an environmentalist challenging a company threatening surrounding habitats. The same is if the roles were reversed, i.e., an organization wanting to take on an unlawful politician.
One vs. Beast/Animal
This one is more or less of the fantasy genre, yet still can bring a strong flow to a story. The Twelve Acts that Hercules was forced to complete involves several examples. He battles and defeats the multi-headed sea serpent, Hydra, the lion giant, Leo, and a host of others, each fight now stapled in the higher ranks of Greek mythology.
One vs. Nature
Many movies and TV shows portray the classic element of dealing with Nature. Characters attempt to prepare, survive, and recover from our planet’s fury in weather phenomenons so catastrophic–and, sometimes, deadly–events, that it changes lives forever. The mid-90’s brought escaping a monster tornado in Twister, and in Deadliest Catch, crews often find themselves riding some of the sea’s most terrifying waves.
One vs. Self
It’s all about redemption. A person makes a major mistake in their past, and decides never to give up until they have righted that wrong. Or, better yet, they fight to live better than what they may be accustomed to, as exampled by someone born and raised in urban slums, blanketed by pockets of poverty and depression, leading to having to survive by unconventional means–some of which come via an act of crime.
One vs. History
Something or someone has a long history of a certain accomplishment, and it’s up to the protagonist to change that. The inheritor to a corrupt crown, or a person with a good heart employed at a company led by greedy officials, would make an excellent example of this particular type of character conflict. Another is the storyline of a sports team with a tradition of disappointment, and the struggle it takes to erase that losing label.
One vs. Time
Keifer Sutherland in 24. Liam Neeson in Taken. Denzel Washington in…well, almost any movie he’s in. An antagonist sets up a plan to take over a city, or even the world, leaving the good guys and gals only so much time to prevent disaster. This category is also apparent in people preparing for a disastrous event. Think of all the brave tales weaved from from the night of the Titanic sinking, passengers and crew racing against the clock after the moment of realization that peril was imminent. Some of the best suspense can spawned from this type of conflict, keeping readers glued.
Happy Writings!!
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