Soap Operas

Some Conventions of soap operas.•A soap opera is a serialised drama that

usually runs each week, all year round.

• It usually features continuous storylines dealing with domestic themes and personal of family relationships.

•They are usually set in a small central area such as a square (Eastenders) or a cul de sac.

Characters within a soap opera. • The grandparent figure: a wise old person, this character

helps others with advice and support.

• The strong woman: an independent women who can usually be found in the centre on conflicts. She may reveal a soft side which is usually hidden.

• The jack the lad: the male character that manipulates others to his own ends. He is often known as the ‘baddie’ .

• The boss figure: usually in a position of authority who tends to be male. The usually own a business that has impact on other characters lives within the square.

Characters within a soap opera continued…• The young couple: a couple that usually face the

difficulties of life, through their own relationship problems. Nearly every British soap opera has a young couple.

• Feisty young female: a strong willed female almost always young who desires independence. She is usually argumentative and miserable.

• The Troublesome oldie: An older grumpy interfering character always with their nose in other peoples business. The character is usually loved and well known.