7 Types of Conflict in Literature: A Writer’s Guide

Conflict pulls readers in, makes characters relatable, and gives a narrative its shape. It’s not just about battles or drama; it’s about desire meeting resistance. A character is chasing something they care about, and the world pushes back. That tension gives a story emotional weight and forward momentum.

From epic adventures to quiet introspective tales, conflict is what makes stories engaging. In this guide, we explore seven types of conflict in literature. With examples and tips for each, you’ll learn how to build tension, challenge your characters, and keep your readers engaged from start to finish.

What is Conflict in Literature?

Conflict is the backbone of storytelling. It’s the tension that keeps readers turning pages and characters making decisions. At its core, conflict in literature is any struggle between opposing forces. That could be two characters, a character and their environment, or even a person wrestling with themselves.

All conflict drives change. It reveals who characters are, how they respond under pressure, and what’s truly at stake. From high-stakes fantasy to literary realism, every story needs it.

Let’s look at the definition of conflict in literature and how it shows up in seven distinct ways.

1. Character vs Character

Also known as man vs man, this is one of the most recognisable types of conflict in literature. It centres on two characters with clashing goals, beliefs, or values, leading to tension and dramatic turning points.

Example: In The Crucible by Arthur Miller, John Proctor is pitted against Reverend Parris and the hysteria of the Salem witch trials. The escalating tension between Proctor and the court, particularly as he tries to expose Abigail’s lies, is a powerful rising action example of character vs character conflict. It explores themes of truth, reputation, and moral integrity.

This kind of conflict drives action, plot twists, and emotional stakes. It can be physical, verbal, or psychological. Want to explore this further? See how antagonists embody conflict and use that tension to shape stronger character arcs.

2. Character vs Self

This internal conflict focuses on a character struggling with their own beliefs, flaws, or emotions. It’s subtle, often introspective, and deeply human.

Example: In Hamlet, the prince debates revenge, grappling with morality, duty, and doubt.

Conflict like this is common in literary fiction, but it’s just as effective in genre stories when done with depth. It’s perfect for exploring flaws in characters and how they grow.

3. Character vs Society

This conflict occurs when a character stands in opposition to cultural norms, laws, institutions, or expectations.

Example: In The Hunger Games, Katniss rebels against a corrupt government system.

These stories often highlight injustice and spark broader questions around power, identity, and rebellion. They resonate when your protagonist challenges the status quo.

4. Character vs Nature

Here, the conflict is between the character and natural elements like storms, animals, disease, or other forces of the natural world.

Example: In Hemingway’s The Old Man and the Sea, the protagonist battles the sea and its creatures in a test of endurance.

This type often highlights survival, resilience, and the fragility of human life. It works well in stories about adventure, exploration, or isolation.

5. Character vs Supernatural

This covers conflicts with ghosts, monsters, gods, or any force that defies natural explanation. It adds a layer of mystery, fear, or awe.

Example: In Macbeth, the witches’ prophecies drive the plot, pushing Macbeth to murder and madness.

Supernatural conflict is a staple in fantasy and horror, but it can also symbolise internal or societal struggles. Think of the supernatural as a metaphor, not just a plot device.

6. Character vs Technology

This modern conflict pits characters against machines, AI, or scientific advances that threaten humanity or morality.

Example: In I, Robot by Isaac Asimov, humans wrestle with the ethics and consequences of artificial intelligence.

This conflict is great for exploring the limits of human control and the unintended consequences of innovation. It’s especially relevant in dystopian and sci-fi settings.

7. Character vs Fate (or Destiny)

In this form of conflict, the protagonist struggles against fate, prophecy, or circumstances beyond their control.

Example: In Oedipus Rex by Sophocles, the title character tries to escape a prophecy, only to fulfil it.

This conflict poses powerful questions about free will, inevitability, and identity. It’s often used in myth, tragedy, or stories with philosophical depth.

Choosing the Right Conflict for Your Story

Understanding the different types of conflict in literature can help you build richer, more engaging plots. Ask yourself:

• What does your character want most?
• What’s stopping them from getting it?
• Is the struggle internal, external, or both?

Most stories don’t stick to just one type. A character might battle self-doubt (vs self) while challenging an unjust system (vs society). Conflict layers add tension and emotional depth.

Strengthen Your Writing with Conflict

Curious why some stories feel like they practically write themselves? It usually comes down to one thing: conflict. The push and pull between characters, desires, and obstacles is what keeps a narrative alive.

If you want to get better at crafting tension and driving momentum, start by pinpointing the basic conflict in a story. Internal, external, or a blend of both, conflict is what fuels character growth and keeps readers invested from page one.

If you’re working on your manuscript, planning your next plot twist, or revisiting an old draft, understanding literary conflict can sharpen your storytelling. And if you need help staying organised, try our software for writing a book.

Conflict is where stories come alive. Get it right, and your readers will keep turning the page.