Respond to ONE of the following questions. Your response should include the following to receive the points in parentheses:
Respond in a well-organized essay. Your answer should be written in complete sentences. (16 pts)
(a) Define the term conflict as it relates to literature and explain its importance in narrative writing. Briefly describe the different types of internal and external conflict. Then choose ONE short story or poem you read for this course. Explain how the author introduces, develops, and resolves a major conflict in this narrative.
In literature, conflict refers to the struggle or clash between opposing forces that serves as the central focus of a narrative. Conflict plays a crucial role in narrative writing as it creates tension, drives the plot forward, and allows for character development and growth.
There are two main types of conflict: internal and external. Internal conflict occurs within a character's mind and involves their struggle with their thoughts, emotions, or values. This internal conflict can manifest as a decision-making dilemma or a moral struggle. On the other hand, external conflict involves a character's confrontation with an external force, such as another character, nature, society, or a larger entity like fate or destiny.
One short story that exemplifies the introduction, development, and resolution of a major conflict is "The Lottery" by Shirley Jackson. The story begins innocuously, with the townspeople gathering for their annual lottery. However, as the narrative progresses, an ever-growing sense of tension is established. This tension arises from the external conflict between the townspeople and the unknown outcome of the lottery.
The author introduces the conflict through subtle hints and foreshadowing. For example, the children's gathering of stones at the beginning hints at a darker purpose for the stones later on in the story. Additionally, the author mentions that other villages have abandoned the lottery, suggesting that there may be something sinister about the event.
As the conflict develops, the tension escalates. The author uses vivid descriptions of the lottery process, from the selection of the papers to the stoning of the winner, to convey the disturbing nature of the conflict. This external conflict reaches its peak when Tess Hutchinson, a seemingly unremarkable member of the community, is chosen as the "winner" and is subsequently stoned to death. This shocking resolution of the conflict highlights the cruelty and senseless violence underlying the lottery.
Although the conflict in "The Lottery" is primarily external, there are also elements of internal conflict within the characters. The townspeople experience cognitive dissonance as they adhere to a tradition that they do not fully understand or question. This internal conflict between their blind obedience to tradition and their moral dilemma is subtly woven into the narrative, adding depth to the characters.
In conclusion, conflict is a vital element of narrative writing as it drives the plot, creates tension, and allows for character development. "The Lottery" effectively introduces, develops, and resolves a major conflict through foreshadowing, vivid descriptions, and a shocking resolution. This conflict serves as a commentary on the dangers of blindly following tradition and the potential for violence lurking beneath seemingly innocent customs.