Final answer:
In literature, an author develops conflict to engage readers, shape the narrative, and support theme development. Techniques like irony, internal monologues, and dialogue help build tension and enrich the storytelling, propelling the narrative and contributing to a greater understanding of character and theme.
Step-by-step explanation:
One way an author develops conflict in a narrative is a crucial technique for engaging readers and exploring themes. Conflicts often shape the purpose of the narrative and stimulate character development. In examples like Austen's use of irony in Northanger Abbey, the seeming deflation of enthusiasm is a device to pique reader interest. Furthermore, narratives like Mark Twain's anecdote reveal that conflict can aid in developing themes, suggesting that reliance on one's own knowledge is essential. This is often advanced through dialogue, which increases tension and defines the conflict while engaging the audience.
The major conflict is typically introduced early on and can be a catalyst for a story, shaping each scene and building toward the climax. At times, the narrator may disclose their internal monologue to endear the audience to the protagonist, adding depth to the conflict. Through these methods, including the strategic use of dialogue and sensory details, the author develops a robust narrative that is meaningful, immersive, and resonates with readers, often leading to a revelation or a deeper understanding of the broader human condition.