Soap Opera History

Many people may watch modern television soap operas without realizing their origins. Soap opera history dates back to classic radio in the 1920s and 1930s in America. Although many things contributed to the history of the soap opera, the name and its narrative format are the building blocks of the industry.

Soap opera history not only includes the increase in radio listeners, but it also illustrates an increase in American consumerism. In fact, the name was created by the press as commentary on the corporate sponsorship that filled daytime broadcasting. Soap operas were originally designed to revolve around advertising. Radio station managers sought out products that would appeal to the daytime target audience of women between the ages of 18-49. Because of this, many cleaning product manufacturers, including a high number of laundry soap companies, sponsored the daily shows. This, along with an ironic suggestion that the subject matter mimicked dramatic opera, gave the radio genre its name.

The serial narrative form is the most important piece of soap opera history. Originally, the dramas were scheduled for 15 minutes daily, and the storyline would continue from one day to the next. This format deviated from other programming whose storyline was contained within each episode. Radio soap operas often referenced previous plot lines, and each episode demanded continuation the next day. Essentially, not everything would be resolved, and that kept the audience incredibly interested. Additionally, instead of being presented from one point of view, soap operas were meant to be told through various individuals. These differing viewpoints add to the complexity of the drama.

Another appeal of the soap opera was its main characters. The matriarchal figure that provided advice was seen as a comfort for those struggling through the Great Depression era. The strong woman who held the family together was a prevalent theme of the day, also appearing in The Grapes of Wrath movie. The radio soap opera started to lose its appeal in the late 1940s with the rising popularity of television. Television programming allowed more opportunities for consumer marketing, and the dramas, as well as their advertising, were soon on screen. Soap opera history didn't stop there though; even today, daytime television broadcasting is devoted to the genre.