Barthes proposed that there are five narrative codes that describe the meaning of a text: the hermeneutic/enigma code, proairetic/action code, semantic code, symbolic code, and referential code. The hermeneutic/enigma code refers to mysteries in a text that create intrigue. The proairetic/action code contains sequential elements of action that add suspense. The semantic code suggests additional meanings through "semes." The symbolic code uses symbolism and opposites to create tension. The referential code refers to external knowledge referenced in a text. These codes were relevant to the student's coursework analyzing symbols in a music video that represented "living a life you will remember."

1. Barthes 5 narrative
codes

2. Barthes
• Barthes suggested that there will be one or more than 5 codes that describe
the meaning of a text.
• Barthes said that texts may be ‘open’ (unravelled in a lot of ways) or ‘closed’.
(There is only one obvious thread to pull on).

3. The 5 codes
• Hermeneutic / Enigma code
• Proairetic / Action code
• Semantic code
• Symbolic code
• Referential code

4. Hermeneutic/ Enigma Code
• This code refers to mystery within a text. Clues are dropped, but no clear
answers are given.
• Enigmas within the narrative make the audience want to know more.
• Unanswered enigmas tend to frustrate the audience.

5. Proairetic/ Action code
• This code contains sequential elements of action in the text.
• Proairetic elements add suspense to the text.

6. Semantic code
• The code refers to parts within the text that suggest or refers to additional
meanings.
• Elements of the semantic code are called ‘Semes’.
• The seme has a connotative function in the text. It has an extra layer of
meaning in addition to its literal meaning.

7. Symbolic Code
• This code is about symbolism within the text
• It exercises opposites to show contrast and create greater meaning, creating
tension, drama and character development.

8. Referential Code
• This code refers to anything in the text which refers to an external body of
knowledge such as scientific, historical and cultural knowledge.

9. How this links to my coursework
• Within the music video, there are many symbolic elements which create a
meaning towards the audience. The lyrics in the song which I have chosen
are the main symbol as they themselves, have their own meaning.
• The symbolic meaning is the phrase ‘Live a life you will remember’. This is
also a key lyric in the video. The music video is full of symbolic codes as the
images which are shown are ‘living life as they will remember’, which is
exactly the meaning I wanted to create towards my audience.