Answer :
Conflict in literature is crucial for driving the narrative and engaging the reader, with internal and external types that influence character development and plot progression. Literary devices such as figurative language help express the author's purpose, while a story's theme is articulated through plot events and character development.
In literature, the term conflict refers to a struggle between opposing forces, which is central to the narrative's plot and is critical for engaging the reader and driving the story forward. Conflicts can be internal, occurring within a character such as grappling with guilt, fear, or an ethical dilemma, or external, which involves outside forces such as conflicts with other characters, society, nature, or technology. Considering a short story read in a course, one could analyze how the author effectively introduces, develops, and ultimately resolves a major conflict, demonstrating the impact on character development and overall narrative.
For instance, in analyzing a short story, one could focus on literary devices like characterization, climax, resolution, and figurative language, which contribute to the storytelling. The author might utilize metaphors or similes to create vivid imagery or employ dialogue that reveals characters' intentions and advances the plot. Discussing how these techniques aid in expressing the author's purpose, be it to entertain, inform, persuade, or describe, can provide insights into how effectively the story communicates its main idea.
In examining a story's theme, it is critical to articulate how the author crafts the theme through various elements of the story. For example, through plot progression, nuanced character interactions, and emotional dialogue, the author can weave a theme that resonates with readers, reflecting shared experiences or societal messages. This theme may tackle broad issues such as love, mortality, or injustice, or it may offer an intimate portrait of individual struggles and triumphs.