English ACT Aspire Practice Test

What is meant by 'conflict' in a story?

1. The sequence of events leading to the end

2. The emotional states of the characters

3. The problem or challenge faced in the story

4. The setting of the narrative

The correct answer is: The problem or challenge faced in the story

Conflict in a story refers to the central problem or challenge that characters must face. It is the driving force of the narrative, creating tension and motivating characters to act and make decisions. This struggle can be internal, where a character grapples with their own thoughts or emotions, or external, involving other characters, society, or nature. The presence of conflict is essential as it propels the plot forward, engages the reader, and often leads to character development and a resolution. The other options focus on different aspects of storytelling. The sequence of events leading to the end reflects the plot structure but does not define conflict itself. Emotional states of characters pertain to their feelings and motivations, which may arise from the conflict but are not solely what conflict represents. The setting of the narrative involves the time and place in which the story occurs, contributing to the background but not the central challenge that drives the characters and plot.