What is NOT a characteristic of a conflict in literature?

In literature, conflict serves as a fundamental element that drives narratives forward, creating tension and engaging readers. While it can propel a plot (as seen in the active pursuit of goals by characters), involve opposing forces (such as protagonist versus antagonist), and promote character development (where characters often grow through their struggles), there is no strict requirement for it to resolve by the end of a story.

Many literary works leave conflicts unresolved, allowing themes to remain complex and open-ended. This lack of resolution can mirror real-life situations where conflicts do not always reach a conclusion, contributing to a more profound reflection of human experience. Thus, the assertion that a conflict must resolve by the end is inaccurate, as it is not a defining characteristic of conflict in literature.