Based on the given options, the statement "The first excerpt illustrates an external conflict, while the second excerpt illustrates an internal conflict" best describes how the main conflict in the first excerpt is different from the main conflict in the second excerpt.
The main conflict in the first excerpt involves external factors, such as a clash with an external force or entity outside of the characters. In contrast, the main conflict in the second excerpt is internal, focusing on the characters' inner struggles, dilemmas, or challenges.