An Analysis of Narrative Elements for Social Issue Communication in Television Series: A Case Study of Spare Me Your Mercy

Abstract

This research aims to analyze the narrative elements used to communicate social issues in the euthanasia-themed television series Spare Me Your Mercy. The study adopts a qualitative methodology, conducting textual analysis of all eight episodes alongside a review of relevant literature. The findings reveal that the series demonstrates comprehensive narrative elements, incorporating the Fichtean Curve to evoke emotional intensity and create pivotal turning points. The central theme reflects the right to die with dignity, while multi-level conflicts moral, social, and personal serve to deepen the ethical complexity of the story. The characters undergo various narrative arcs, the settings reflect contemporary Thai society, and the dialogues open space for moral contemplation. A range of narrative perspectives is employed, alongside symbolic devices that convey cultural meanings and emotional depth. In terms of communicative strategies, the series integrates sound, visual, and object design elements, as well as characters of diverse gender identities and social roles. These methods engage viewers in ethical reflection and encourage critical inquiry into the issue of euthanasia. The findings of this study provide a useful guideline for scriptwriting in other series that aim to address sensitive social issues.