Student Question

In the novel "Holes", is man vs. fate an internal or external conflict?

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In "Holes," man vs. fate is depicted as an external conflict. This type of conflict arises when a character faces circumstances beyond their control, similar to man vs. nature. An example is Stanley's wrongful conviction for stealing sneakers, a situation he did not cause but must confront. Unlike internal conflicts, which occur within a character's mind, external conflicts like man vs. fate involve external forces impacting the character's life.

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Man vs. fate is an external conflict, and is essentially the same thing as man vs. nature. Fate is what is going to happen to you that you have no control over. Due to the fact that you have no control over it, it is an external conflict. Remember that internal conflict is an conflict that is happening within the character's mind. Man vs. fate is seen in the novel when Stanley was convicted even though he did not steal the sneakers. Stanley was forced to overcome this barrier that was beyond his control.

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