The main conflict in Catching Fire, the second book in Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games trilogy, revolves around Katniss Everdeen’s struggle against the oppressive Capitol. After her victory in the 74th Hunger Games, Katniss becomes a symbol of rebellion for the oppressed districts of Panem. The Capitol, led by President Snow, sees her as a threat to their control and seeks to eliminate her influence.
This conflict escalates when Katniss and Peeta are forced to participate in the Quarter Quell, a special edition of the Hunger Games that pits previous victors against each other. The Capitol’s goal is to crush the growing rebellion by destroying its symbol, Katniss. Throughout the story, Katniss must navigate the deadly arena while also grappling with her role in the uprising and her feelings for Peeta and Gale.
The conflict is both external, as Katniss fights for survival against the Capitol’s manipulations and the other tributes, and internal, as she struggles with her identity, her relationships, and the moral complexities of leading a rebellion.