A soap analysis is a technique used to analyze and evaluate the elements of a television show or film. The acronym "SOAP" stands for "Subject, Object, Action, and Purpose." By examining these four elements, one can gain a deeper understanding of the themes, character motivations, and overall message of a work.
For example, let's consider the popular television show "Breaking Bad." In this show, the subject is the main character, Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking and selling methamphetamine after being diagnosed with terminal cancer. The object of the show is the illegal drug trade and the impact it has on those involved. The action of the show is the various events and actions that take place as Walter navigates this new world. The purpose of the show is to explore the consequences of one's actions and the lengths a person will go to in order to provide for their family.
By analyzing the show using the SOAP method, we can see that the central theme of "Breaking Bad" is the cost of one's choices and the consequences that come with them. Walter's initial decision to enter the drug trade is driven by his desire to provide for his family after he is gone, but as the show progresses, it becomes clear that this decision has far-reaching consequences, both for himself and those around him. The object, the illegal drug trade, serves as a backdrop for these consequences, as Walter's involvement in it leads to conflicts with other characters, legal issues, and even violence. The action of the show, the various events and actions that take place, serves to drive this theme forward, as we see the impact of Walter's choices on his relationships, career, and personal well-being.
Overall, the SOAP analysis method allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the themes, characters, and message of a work by examining the elements of subject, object, action, and purpose. By analyzing "Breaking Bad" using this method, we can see that the show explores the consequences of one's choices and the cost of one's actions.