Which narrative style is notably utilized in "The Simpsons"?

The straightforward episodic format is the defining narrative style utilized in "The Simpsons." Each episode typically presents a self-contained story or adventure involving the central characters of the show, allowing audiences to easily engage with the narrative without needing to follow an overarching plot across multiple episodes. This format is highly effective for a sitcom as it allows for comedic situations to be explored with a level of independence, ensuring that viewers can enjoy individual episodes regardless of their prior viewing experience.

In addition, this episodic structure has created opportunities for a variety of stories that cover a wide range of themes and societal issues while maintaining a consistent tone and style. While there may be occasional references to past events or character development across episodes, the essence of "The Simpsons" lies in its ability to deliver humor and social commentary through these standalone narratives. This makes the straightforward episodic format a hallmark of the series, distinguishing it from other narrative styles such as non-linear storytelling or experimental formats.