ABSTRACT

In this chapter, the subjective nature of an ontological approach to transmedia fictional universes is analyzed. The current (and inadequate) bibliographic series tool, the ontological structure created by a group of scholars at the University of Washington, and the relevance of an ontological approach in the arts and humanities are also discussed. The benefits of this approach for scholars and fans include: clear definitions of commonly used terms, the ability to quantify and analyze elements within narratives, and new avenues for research. Future research should include the creators of these universes, since they also benefit from this approach.