Scope Note:

Fictional television series which focus on the events in the lives of a cast of recurring characters, presented in a serial fashion. Plots often center on romances between the characters, but can include adventure, intrigue, or the supernatural. The endings of each program are normally unresolved or only partially resolved, encouraging the viewer to anticipate what may happen in the next episode. Note: Spanish-language telenovelas are considered to be soap operas. Used for television series only; for features use the term Melodrama. Examples: CORONATION STREET; DALLAS (with Family); DYNASTY (with Family); DARK SHADOWS (with Horror); DAYS OF OUR LIVES; EASTENDERS; THE EDGE OF NIGHT; GENERAL HOSPITAL (wiht Medical); MARY HARTMAN, MARY HARTMAN (with Parody); MELROSE PLACE; PRISONER CELL BLOCK H (with Prison); UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS (with Historical); THE YOUNG AND THE RESTLESS.

Subject Categories: