Human vs. Supernatural: The central conflict of the story is the protagonist's, Strickland, struggle against a supernatural force, which manifests as a mysterious mark that appears on his hand and begins to control his actions and thoughts. Strickland's human nature and free will are pitted against the malevolent power of the mark.
Internal Conflict: Strickland experiences a profound internal conflict as the mark takes over his mind and body. He grapples with the fear, confusion, and loss of control that accompanies the transformation. He battles with his own sanity and tries to maintain his humanity while fighting against the evil influence of the mark.
Human vs. Nature: The story presents a conflict between humans and nature, specifically the wild and unpredictable forces of the jungle. Strickland embarks on a journey into the dense Indian jungle, where he faces dangerous encounters with wild animals, poisonous creatures, and challenging terrain. The harsh environment and unpredictable nature add to his struggles and create obstacles in his quest to escape the mark.
Social Conflict: Strickland's transformation causes social conflict and isolation. He becomes an outcast, feared and avoided by his fellow humans due to the mark's evil reputation. This social isolation further compounds his internal turmoil and desperation to find a cure or escape.
Moral Conflict: Strickland grapples with moral dilemmas throughout the story. He debates the ethics of killing himself to prevent further harm to others and contemplates the consequences of his actions and choices. The conflict between his moral principles and the desperate desire for survival creates a complex moral struggle for the protagonist.