Encyclopedia of Television Subjects, Themes and Settings

This comprehensive reference work offers an unprecedented deep dive into the thematic DNA of television, organizing eight decades of broadcast history into a searchable catalog of subjects, settings, and recurring motifs. Readers will discover meticulously researched entries on everything from shows featuring ghosts and genies to the surprising firsts of television, like early color broadcasting tests in 1941 and unexpected on-screen moments that predated modern cable standards. The book’s structure transforms a sprawling medium into an accessible archive, revealing the hidden patterns and historical milestones that have defined TV's evolution.

What sets this encyclopedia apart is its unique analytical lens, moving beyond simple program summaries to explore the conceptual frameworks that connect disparate shows across generations. Television historians, trivia enthusiasts, and aspiring writers will find an invaluable resource for understanding how certain themes—from angels to accidental nudity—have been portrayed and have evolved throughout broadcasting history. This isn't just a list of facts; it's a tool for seeing the entire landscape of television through a new, more organized, and insightful perspective.