What term is used to describe a clash between opposing forces in literature?

The term "conflict" is used to describe a clash between opposing forces in literature because it encompasses the central struggle that drives a narrative. Conflict is essential to the plot and often involves characters facing challenges against each other, society, nature, or within themselves. This struggle creates tension and propels the story forward, allowing for character development and thematic exploration.

The other terms do not capture this concept: "resolution" refers to the conclusion or outcome of the conflict; "theme" is the underlying message or main idea of a work; while "setting" involves the time and place in which the story occurs. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in storytelling, but they do not specifically denote the clash of opposing forces that defines conflict.