The soap opera "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman" presents an interesting new genre in television, as it defies the conventional standards and stereotypes associated with daytime drama. The central character is not a dependent victim but a survivor who indicates to her viewers the concept which advertisers and media management have of them. A parody of the form of soap opera and a satire on American consumer society, "Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman" reveals the social mythology which tends to oppress both men and women. (Author/AA)