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1. Roland Barthes
Barthesnarrowed down theaction of a text in to FiveCodes which arewoven
into any narrative:
 Action code
 Enigma code
 Semic code
 Cultural code
 Code of oppositions
Action Code:
This code is used to indicate to the audience what the next logical step is. Proairetic
elements add suspense to the text.
Enigma Code:
This code refers to the mystery within the text. This is achieved through controlling how
much and what information is given to the audience. The mysteries within the narrative
frustrate the audience and make them want to know more.
Semic Code:
This code refers to parts within the text that suggest additional meanings. Signs and
meanings in the text tell the audience about the narrative and characters. These semes add
a further layer of meaning over the literal one.
Cultural Code:
This code refers to anything in the text which is external knowledge. For example cultural
and historical knowledge included in the text. The text will make reference to elements from
the real world.
Code of Oppositions:
This code relies on binary opposites (Strauss) to show contrast, create tension and
narrative/character development.
Barthes Narrative Codes Applied to Our Thriller
At the verybeginningof ourthrillerthere’s goingtobe a scene withablurredoutlaptopscreen.
Puttingthe screenoutof focusleavesaudience wonderingaboutwhatthe protagonist isdoingon
the laptop.We are usingthe mystery/enigmacode here toimmediately getthe audienceasking
questions fromstart.Anothercode we are goingto use isthe semiccode.The factthat the
characters underthe bridge are ina gang is shownthroughthem wearinghoodies.We are alsogoing
to use an actioncode whenthe ringleaderpushesthe protagonistjustbefore she ispushedtothe
floorand kickedbythe gang.The pushindicatestothe audience thatthe protagonistislikelytoget
hurt insome wayby the gang soon.