Which type of conflict do you believe will have the most impact in the book Monster?
In the book "Monster" by Walter Dean Myers, the most impactful type of conflict is internal conflict.
"Monster" tells the story of Steve Harmon, a sixteen-year-old African American boy on trial for his alleged involvement in a robbery and murder. Throughout the book, Steve grapples with his own identity and struggles with guilt, uncertainty, and fear about his future. The internal conflict arises from Steve's desperate desire to prove his innocence and maintain his sense of self-worth amidst the accusations, prejudice, and harsh reality of the criminal justice system.
Steve's internal conflict is evident through the use of a screenplay-like format, where readers are able to gain insight into his thoughts and emotions. As the trial progresses, Steve battles with thoughts of his guilt and innocence, questioning his own actions and intentions. The internal struggle becomes even more pronounced as Steve faces the harsh reality of his surroundings, the manipulation tactics of his defense lawyer, and the conflicting testimonies of witnesses during the trial.
This internal conflict heavily impacts Steve's character development and drives the main thematic exploration of identity and morality in the novel. It engages readers in questioning their own understanding of justice, empathy, and the complexities of the human experience. Overall, the internal conflict in "Monster" is the most impactful because it unfolds the inner struggles of the protagonist, shaping the narrative and leaving a lasting impression on readers.