Final answer:
The main conflict in 'The Postmaster' is internal, as the postmaster struggles with self-doubt and anxiety in a high-pressure situation, which serves to build the climax and convey the story's theme of self-reliance over second-guessing oneself.
Step-by-step explanation:
The main conflict in the story concerns the internal struggle of the postmaster himself. Initially, the postmaster feels confident in managing a crossing, but as the passage unfolds and Mr. Bixby introduces other people to observe him, this increases his anxiety and leads to self-doubt. This tension is an example of an internal conflict, which is a conflict that happens within a character's mind. It involves emotions, beliefs, or values, for instance, when a character grapples between duty to family and duty to the state.
In 'The Postmaster' specifically, it is the postmaster's self-doubt and second-guessing that build up the story's climax, creating the greatest tension as he deals with his personal challenges. This conflict not only engages the reader but also helps in developing the theme of the story. It conveys the message that reliance on one's knowledge and training is crucial, and one should avoid second-guessing oneself. Internal conflicts like these often add depth to a story's characters and are pivotal in determining their actions and growth.
Alongside such internal struggles, external conflicts also play a role in storytelling, involving a character's clash with outside forces, whether it be other characters, society, or their environment. Yet, in the context of 'The Postmaster', the primary conflict remains an internal one, echoing broader themes of self-reliance and the consequences of doubt.