Serial

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Serialized)

Serial[edit | edit source]

A serial is a format for presenting a single, continuous narrative in sequential installments. This format is commonly used in various forms of media, including literature, television, radio, and film. Serials are designed to keep the audience engaged over a period of time, often ending each installment with a cliffhanger to entice the audience to return for the next part.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of the serial dates back to the 19th century with the rise of serialized novels in magazines and newspapers. Notable early examples include Charles Dickens's The Pickwick Papers and Arthur Conan Doyle's Sherlock Holmes stories. These serialized works were published in parts, often on a weekly or monthly basis, and were highly popular among readers.

Types of Serials[edit | edit source]

Literature[edit | edit source]

In literature, serials are often published in magazines or newspapers. They can also be released as a series of novellas or short stories. Famous literary serials include The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas and Uncle Tom's Cabin by Harriet Beecher Stowe.

Television[edit | edit source]

Television serials, also known as TV series, are a staple of modern entertainment. They can be categorized into episodic series, where each episode is a self-contained story, and serial dramas, where the narrative continues across multiple episodes. Examples of popular television serials include Breaking Bad, Game of Thrones, and The Walking Dead.

Radio[edit | edit source]

Radio serials were particularly popular in the early to mid-20th century. These audio dramas were broadcast in regular installments and were a primary form of entertainment before the advent of television. Notable radio serials include The Shadow and The War of the Worlds.

Film[edit | edit source]

Film serials, also known as chapter plays, were especially popular during the early 20th century. These were short films that were part of a series, with each installment ending in a cliffhanger. Examples include The Perils of Pauline and Flash Gordon.

Characteristics of Serials[edit | edit source]

Serials are characterized by their continuous narrative structure, which unfolds over multiple installments. They often feature complex storylines, multiple characters, and subplots. The use of cliffhangers is a common technique to maintain audience interest and ensure they return for subsequent installments.

Impact and Influence[edit | edit source]

The serial format has had a significant impact on modern storytelling across various media. It has influenced the structure of contemporary television shows, web series, and even video games. The format allows for in-depth character development and complex plotlines, making it a versatile and enduring method of storytelling.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

Categories[edit | edit source]

WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD