Final answer:
The conflict represented in the excerpt from 'Marigolds' can be characterized as both an internal struggle of the characters with poverty and a societal conflict that echoes the principles of conflict theory, aligning with themes of class struggle and social inequality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The excerpt from “Marigolds” describes a type of conflict that is not just physical but rather ideological or existential. The comparison between the trapped individuals who feel hatred toward their socio-economic cage to flamingos that innately wish to fly free illustrates a profound inner struggle and a sense of oppression. This type of conflict can be seen as a metaphorical representation of class struggle and shared social hardships, which aligns with conflict theory in sociology.
Conflict in literature is essential for the plot and can manifest in many forms, whether as physical obstacles for the characters, internal battles within the characters themselves, or as societal issues like inequality and social class divisions. The metaphor used in the quote suggests the characters’ internal conflict with their socio-economic status, an intangible force shaping their existence and limiting their potential—akin to the barriers faced in class conflicts and the struggles highlighted by conflict theory.
By invoking this type of conflict, the author not only aims to highlight the characters' internal struggle but also comments on wider societal issues, touching upon themes like poverty, social constraints, and the inherent human desire for freedom. This reflects some of the conflict theories advocated by thinkers like Karl Marx, who saw societal progression stemming from the ongoing struggle between different social classes.