House. Narrative Structure at the Service of Science.

Abstract

This article analyzes the narrative structure of the television series House MD (David Shore, Fox: 2004-) through a comparison with the steps followed in the scientific method. Each episode, which is selfconclusive and has a very vertical structure, is dedicated to solving a medical case that looks like an unsolvable puzzle. After applying a particular method (observation-description-induction-hypothesis-experimentation-confirmation/hypothesis refutation, universal comparison) Dr. House is able to solve the case, always basing himself on the second hypothesis put forward. The survival of the patient is not always guaranteed by the solution of the puzzle, but it reveals a hidden lie that becomes a key factor for solving the case. This fixed and unchangeable structure allows the spectator to enjoy the eccentricities of the character, seeking in his dialogues the key to the enigma.