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Semiotics And Semiotics
Semiotics Analysis
Introduction
Semiotics is the study of signs, symbols and gestures. This art is quite complex to understand. Knowing the foundations of semiotics poses a great
challenge to scholars worldwide. Differentiating whether semiotics is a cult, philosophy, an uprising, or religion is very technical. In this essay I will
be exploring key theorists and theories on semiotics, I will also be using some of these theories to deconstruct an image using semiotic analysis.
With a great desire to know its origins, human beings are thriving to unearth reasons of their existence and where and how they came to being.
Semiotics assist in unraveling this fact, just like the invention of science, myths, art and other languages, semiotics also forms part of the list (Danesi,
2004). Semiotics has had an application in our day–to–day activities. It has been applied in films production, theater industry, medicine, architectural
activities, in zoology and other areas that are involved with or concerned of communication and information transfer (Berger, 2004). It can also be used
by people who specialize in cognate disciplines such as psychology, anthropology, mythology and other literary studies (Danesi, 2004).
Semiotics entirely revolves around the basic theories of sign, symbol and gesture. There are many semiotics theorists who include but not limited to
Roland Barthes, Ferdinand de Saussure, Charles Sanders Peirce, Philip K. Dick, Dan Chandler, Ron Burnett are just but a few
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Semiotics And Semiology : Semiotics
Semiotics and Semiology Semiotics explores the connection and meaning between the signifier and the signified. Saussure explained that a sign was
not only a sound–image but also a concept. Thus, he divided the sign into two components: the signifier (or "sound–image") and the signified (or
"concept"). The functionality of our society revolves around the concept of signs and symbols (semiotics), which we use to communicate. Our
communication is successful because of the mutual agreement formed by society on what the symbols and words of our language mean. Today, the
signifier is interpreted as the material form (something which can be seen, heard, touched, smelled or tasted) and the signified as the mental concept.
An everyday example...show more content...
Cobb possesses one of the aforementioned totems (a spinning tractricoid top) – after awakening from a dream whilst trialling Yusuf's sedative, Cobb is
seen attempting to frantically spin his top. Nolan employs diegetic sounds of Cobb gasping for air, as well as rapid camera transition and fast cutting
of the montage to disorientate the audience (00:45:05). In doing so, a sense of energy and chaos is created to simulate Cobb's internal struggles with
the paradigms of reality and illusion – Cobb is metaphorically "wrestling" with solipsism. He must assess whether he should accept his subconscious'
adaptation of his spouse and children (supposedly a false reality) or continue to pursue his "real" wife and children. Regardless of either "realities",
Cobb's totem is anomalous and discrepant in behaviour – to reiterate, every other totem in the film is designed to behave normally when in someone's
dreams and abnormally in reality; Cobb's totem, on the other hand, is designed to topple over when he is awake and continue to spin indefinitely
when he is still dreaming. During the denouement, a panning shot to the foreground is used as a vector to direct the audience's focus to the salient
image of the spinning top, further emphasised by the shallow focus shot (02:30:37). Supposedly, we are able to discern whether Cobb is awake or
dreaming depending on whether the top topples over or continues to spin.
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Analysis Of Marc Jacobs Rhyme Advertisement
The advertisement I chose for my semiotics analysis is a controversial Marc Jacobs perfume advertisement. It features Oh, Lola! Women's perfume.
The advertisement involves sexualization of children as many sexally charged metaphors are planted intentionally. The model sits on a pink floor,
against a pink background. She wears a translucent pink dress, and leans back slightly with her legs extended in front of her. She appears to wear a
natural makeup that makes her look both juvenile and feminine. Her dress piled around her upper thighs as she is too young to understand how ladies
sit properly in a dress. The entire scene is in shades of pink, which is the colour often associated with young girls. All these element are designed to
make her
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Semiotic Analysis Of An Advertisement
Introduction Semiotics refers to the study of signs in culture, symbols and their use or interpretation. The following semiotic analysis of the
advertisement for Frank Rippingille's patent cooking stoves and an image of the "Summer at the Cape of Good Hope–Afternoon tea on the stoep" by
Renhardt, which proceeds by a description of the denotative meaning of the image and the advertisement and then followed by the interpretation of the
connotative meaning by drawing on knowledge of the Victorian values (Walvin 1987). Semiotic analysis1: Summer at the Cape of Good Hope–
Afternoon Tea on the Stoep. Denotation The lady on the right is sitting on a chair holding a fan on her right hand speaking to a man who is carrying a
cup of tea. Further on behind them there are three men and one...show more content...
These stoves were a product of the empire as they were manufactured in Birmingham in the 1880's (Oil cooking stoves[Sa]). By using these stoves
it actually shows support to the empire and hence national pride (Walvin 1987). The woman who is handing out the stoves is Queen Victoria
because of the crown on her head and the lion on her chair and lion represent royalty (Symbolic meaning of lions[Sa]). She was the Queen of
Britain from 1837 to 1901 which was the second largest reign in the British monarch. The people who come from different cultures represent the
different nations and this is justified by the text which states "Englands gift a blessing to all nations" Queen Victoria represents England and the gift
is the stove. The smile on the man who is carrying a board while looking at Queen Victoria while she is handing out stoves shows that he is happy
and he has a cheerful character. The black man who is receiving the stove is on his knees which expresses gratitude and shows good manners and
respect to Queen Victoria, which is one of the Victorian values (Walvis
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What is Semiotics, Semiology and Difference? In this paper I will define the Semiotics, Semiology and Difference then I will give the views and
beliefs of the three of the masterminds behind these terms.
Firstly, Semiology and Semiotics are two related disciplines, which study semiotics, the relation of significance involving signs, object and mind, and
classification of signs. Semiotics is a synonym for Semiology. Semiotics is defined as the study of signs and symbols and their interpretation, while
Semiology is semiotics, the study of signs. According to Swiss Linguist and Semiotician Ferdinand de Saussure semiotics is the science of signs.
Saussure in Course in General Linguistics, said "the roles of signs are part of our social life". For him, sign has two parts, the signifier and the
signified. The signifier is the physical form of the sign. The signified is the concept to which the signifier refers the meaning or idea it refers to in
...show more content...
For him, Semiotics is a formal doctrine of sign, signs must have a "real connection with the thing it signifies." It is a much boarder clasof Saussure's
signifier, as it extends into the physical as well. According to him, there is a third element that must be present for signification to take happen. This,
additional element is the understanding of the relation between signifier and signified, he referred to this as the interpretant. The interpretant sheds
light on the relationship between signifier and signified. Pierce admonishes that a sign or signifier must be interpreted in order to exist. The sign or
signifier creates an interpretant and this in turn allows us to access it object or the signified. In other words, if the sign means something it requires
somebody (a mind) signifying and something (an object) that is
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Semiotics : Signs, Symbols And Gestures
Semiotics is the study of signs, symbols and gestures. This art is quite complex to understand. Knowing the foundations of semiotics poses a great
challenge to scholars worldwide. Differentiating whether semiotics is a cult, philosophy, an uprising, or religion is very technical. In this essay I will
be exploring key theorists and theories on semiotics, I will also be using some of these theories to deconstruct an image using semiotic analysis.
With a great desire to know its origins, human beings are thriving to unearth reasons of their existence and where and how they came to being.
Semiotics assist in unraveling this fact, just like the invention of science, myths, art and other languages, semiotics also forms part of the list (Danesi,
2004). Semiotics has had an application in our day–to–day activities. It has been applied in films production, theater industry, medicine, architectural
activities, in zoology and other areas that are involved with or concerned of communication and information transfer (Berger, 2004). It can also be used
by people who specialize in cognate disciplines such as psychology, anthropology, mythology and other literary studies (Danesi, 2004).
Semiotics entirely revolves around the basic theories of sign, symbol and gesture. There are many semiotics theorists who include but not limited to
Roland Barthes, Ferdinand de Saussure, Charles Sanders Peirce, Philip K. Dick, Dan Chandler, Ron Burnett are just but a few of those who made an
impact in
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The Power of Semiotics Essay
The Power of Semiotics
The first ordinance of this class is to write a reflexive paper about semiotics as I, or as I try to, understand it. Being able to write a reflexive paper
luckily does not imply that I hold a thorough understanding of the material. Or, for that matter, a thorough understanding of the material for which I
am about to reflect. I hesitate, for one of the first times in my life, to say that I can write a paper about semiotics or reflecting about semiotics or
critiquing semiotics. But as in all great journeys one must open the door and step outside to see the roller coaster that awaits. So here I go....
My first comments will come from my infinitesimally small perspective of the universe. But this is the case for...show more content...
These signs were gathered examined and then a diagnosis was made. Yes this is similar or parallel to what Hippocrates was discussing, and what
Umberto Eco described in the video clip shown in class on January 29. After the shock wore off I began to develop a deeper understanding and
appreciation for semiotics.
As I have read more about semiotics I see how it truly is in accordance with what I have experienced and learned in my life. Even to the point of
where I was using it in my classroom, though, obviously I had no idea that I was doing it. I was teaching my students to read and interpret the signs
/symbols of a problem: to examine each part in its environment and how to make a decision or derive an answer from the symbol(s). Yes, in
mathematics most of the symbols (if I am using that correctly) are conventionally agreed upon for this country, but the students are bringing with them
so much mathematical baggage that sometimes the symbols will continuously carry on the wrong concept. At least the wrong conventionally agreed
upon concept. So I was more of an interpreter of signs for them until they could interpret the symbols themselves. ( I have always thought mathematics
should be taught as a language or an interpretive decision making process, but I can't let that out because I would never get a job!!!)
Simply, I am trying to state with my insanely limited knowledge about semiotics to this point, I see its involvement in my life and
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Essay on Semiotics of Personal Objects
Ever since I was a little girl, clothes and shoes have been important to me. I loved picking out my own outfits for school, and finding just the right
color Keds or sandals to match. It truly was a passion. Even now, many years later, here I am, the same shopaholic and fashion maniac I have always
been. After researching semiotics, which in short, is the method of interpreting signs and finding a deeper meaning in everyday activities, I realize, that
my reasoning for choosing the clothes and shoes that I chose, is deeper, than just the fact that I looked cute, it was a choice of statements I was making
each and every time. The question is what statements did I make?
Recently, on a trip through Europe I bought myself some new...show more content...
Not that I am out to make anyone think I have loads of money, but it feels good when people walk up to you and say things like, "Wow, I love your
shoes. Diesel shoes are so awesome." It just makes you feel good, about the way you look and about your keen sense of fashion. Not that diesel shoes
have always been this way, shifts in popularity make them the symbol that they are. When I wear thee shoes, I am saying that
fashion is important enough to me that I am willing and able to spend hundreds of dollars on
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shoes. Every outfit decision makes a statement, whether you realize it or not, and people form opinions and stereotypes about you based on those
symbols whether they realize it or not. Not to say its right or wrong, it just is.
Another item I wish to discuss, in semiotic terms are my old, faded, black sweat pants, or as I like to call them my comfy clothes. Now, there not
new, hip or expensive, but they are some of my favorite pants in the whole world. I wear, them when I want to be comfortable and casual, and when
I am not trying to impress anyone. I would never think of wearing them to work, church, or on a date. But why not? What make it okay to go
shopping in, but not good enough for dinner and a movie with a guy. Well, before I knew about semiotics, I would say its just common sense, but now
I know that it is deeper than that. When
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Semiotics In Romeo And Juliet
This essay will pose as a semiotic analysis of a famous quote from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Semiotics are commonly used in daily life, but
often go unnoticed. Many quotes that are used by business professionals are quotes from famous writers such as Shakespeare. In Shakespeare's'
Romeo and Juliet, the phrase "Go wisely and slowly. Those who rush stumble and fall." Resonated with me and is the phrase that I chose to analyze
in this essay. The words and ideas that are signs in the quote are wisely, slowly, rush, stumble and fall. These words are signs in the quote because each
word possesses an underlying meaning. In this essay, a semiotic analysis of the phrase from Romeo and Juliet will be provided as it relates to business
professionals and what the phrase signifies when used in that context.
Shakespeare suggests that wisely in this context signifies making smart, mature decisions in any given situation because each decision that is made
can excel or hinder future endeavors. The pros and cons should be weighed before committing, in order to make a sound decision. Without proper
information and guidance, one is essentially ignorant to the task at hand. For example, a mentor may be necessary because they may have
accomplished a goal that you are aiming towards and can give advice on what you should and shouldn't do while trying to reach your goal.
Furthermore, the word slowly signifies taking your time to accomplish tasks and goals. It takes a great amount of patience to see how things done
now will pay off overall. Great things aren't accomplished overnight. From a business standpoint, it means that you must work your way to the top.
The process may seem slow, but the progress is in constant evolution in preparation for the outcome. There is a stigma that has been placed upon
individuals by society that to be successful, things must be accomplished quickly and if they aren't, then it equates to a lessened sense of success in
some cases.
Additionally, the word rush is a sign that signifies how sometimes as human beings with our longing for instant gratification, we tend to want to speed
up the process without a second thought. People tend to rush the process of life to attain temporary happiness which
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Semiotics : Signs And Symbols
Semiotics is the study of signs and symbols. It explores how words and other signs make meaning. When it comes to the topic of semiotics, there are
two main theories, founded by Ferdinand de Saussure and Charles Sanders Pierce. Both semiologists proposed their theories in the early 1900's.
Saussure was a Swiss Linguist born in 1857. He created the Dyadic model of semiotics. His theory shows that a sign is made up of a matched pair, the
signifier and the signified. The signifier is the word, whereas the signified is the physical object. When put together, they create a sign. His theory was
published by his students after his death, entitled 'Cours de Linguistique Genereale'.
Peirce created the triadic model of semilogical theory. He looked at the signs themselves, the way they were organised and the context in which they
appear. His method involves categorising signs into 3 areas – Icon, Index and Symbol.
Iconic signs speak about truth and reality. They physically represent the object for what it is. Examples of these are portraits, cartoons and
photographs. Iconic words are also possible. For example, onomatopoeic words such as 'boom' or 'bang' can both be described as iconic language.
An indexical sign is a direct link between the object and the sign itself. For example, footprints in sand – there is an indication that a form of physical
reality has taken place.
Symbolic signs have no connection between the sign and the meaning behind it. They thoroughly rely on the
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Design: Representation and Semiotics Essay
The phrase "what is design" has been contemplated constantly. Walking down the street, people see cars, buildings and advertisements; piece of
artwork serving purposes in the daily lives. Throughout society, people are bombarded by a verity of designs captivating the users and manifesting
itself within cultural space. It is a broad definition and this may be due to the existence of art, with the two forms sharing such similarities yet different
quite distinctly. Designers create to capture users attention, but 'what is design?' When the term 'design' comes to mind, it could be difficult to define
and is often misconstrue as a term for art, however they have two entirely different meanings. People understand that the only difference...show more
content...
In order to gratify the users, designers need to figure out what users need and want. They must think in a user and design perspective to mold a
sustainable and user–friendly design that could be widely and economically used. Design can also represent a person, by giving the person an
identity in the world. For example, one buys a recently launched electronic which is highly expensive for an average person to afford. By bringing the
new product around and showing it to different types of people, the product gains more popularity and people think of this person as a high–income
grosser (identity). The first thing that catches the users attention is the design of the product or its packaging. Companies are using design as a
weapon to compete with their competitors for their products, in order get a share in the marketplace. The power of design thinking cannot be
stopped. Users demand from design more and more everyday. Design is all about communication and semiotics is a key term that plays a huge role
in the society. According to O'Brien and Szeman, semiotics "focuses in the way in which meaning is generated through the relationships between
signs in a text" (O'Brien and Szeman, 76). Words and signage is a very powerful tool to communicate and to grab users attention. Signs can express
how emotions and beliefs represent in different cultures. One important key reason is, if it is legible. Many designers tend to overlook this most
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Fashion and Semiotics Essay
Ever since their invention many centuries ago, clothes have been used as a way of communicating. The message communicated relies on a number of
factors including the social background of both the communicator and the receiver, and the context in which the message is communicated. Although at
times the exact message or symbolism one is trying to portray may not be clear, it is evident that clothing has long been embraced as one of the best
ways to project one's desired personal image to those around them.
For many centuries clothing was used namely as a form of symbolising one's ascribed class and social honour. A good example of this was evident in
Feudal European times when sumptuary laws were created in order to regulate and specify...show more content...
The way in which this honour was portrayed to the outside world involved elaborate and restrictive corsetry and bulky skirts for the women and
patent shoes, gloves, top hats and suits for the men. Such clothing, especially that worn by women, was completely impractical for engaging in any
form of physical labour. As a quote taken from Thorstein Veblen's 'The Theory of the Leisure Class' eloquently states, the general consensus of this
era was that '...apparel is always in evidence and affords an indication of our pecuniary standing to all observers at first glance...dress, therefore, in
order to serve its purpose effectively should not only be expensive, but it should also make plain to all observers that the wearer is not engaged in any
kind of productive labour...' (www.pemberley.com/janeinfo/vebleis7.html).
With the birth of industrialisation mass production became possible bringing fashion to the masses. Whilst such an innovation allowed for a cycle of
innovation and change and provided a vehicle for the lower classes to dabble in reproductions of upper class fashions, there were still differences
evident within the products, which ensured distinctions between classes could be made. Such symbolism included obvious differences in fabric and
even sometimes, sewing quality. Other symbols that were highly prevalent in the late 18th century included ribbons and the number of buttons a man
wore fastened on his coat or
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Essay on A Critique on Semiotics Theory
A Critique on Semiotics Theory
In the early 1900s Ferdinand de Saussure coined the term semiology. Semiology is concerned with "anything that can stand for something else." French
writer Roland Barthes concentrates on interpreting signs. His ultimate goal is to explain how seemingly straightforward signs pick up ideological or
connotative meaning and work to maintain the cultural status quo. In the book, A First Look at Communication Theory, EmGriffin presents the
semiotics theory then later goes on to critique it. As for myself, I believe Barthes' theory is right in some ways and in other ways is not.
In Barthes' theory he states that a sign has a signifier and a signified. The signifier is something you can see and grasp. What...show more content...
What he means by this is a sign starts out with a denotative meaning and through our interpretation it develops a connotative meaning. In his critique he
goes on to say that it is possible a sign could start out "connotatively innocent." My opinion on the theory is the sign starts with a denotative meaning
and can only have connotative meaning after we have assigned it meaning through our interpretation. An example of this is when I was in one of my
communication classes and we read about the President going to visit another country. The President did not know it but our country's non–verbal sign
to represent peace meant "screw you" in the other country. My point here is the non–verbal sign did not have meaning until our country or their country
assigned it meaning.
One aspect of Barthes' theory I would like to question is his statement about how a sign is anything that can stand for something else. I do not
necessarily agree with this. An example would be a stoplight. Almost everywhere you go in the world a red light means stop. What this means are
most people assign the same meaning to a red light. It doesn't stand for something else, it only stands for stop. Another example is the Red Cross
symbol. The Red Cross stands for emergencies and medical help. I can't think of any instance when this sign stands for something else.
I do believe that Barthes makes some good points in his theory but I also believe his theory could use some revision. In my opinion
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Semiotics in Art History
The Oxford English Dictionary defines semiotics as ''[the] science of communication studied through interpretation of signs and symbols as they
operate in various fields, especially language." Semiology is characterized as ''the science of signs which studies the life of signs within society.'' Signs
include, among others, sounds, images, words, odors, objects; they are concepts that stand for something else in a system of signification. They allow
us to communicate a concept or an idea while it is physically absent. In art history, the simplest description of semiology consists of the translation of an
image into words. Two prominent founders of the contemporary sign theories are Peirce and Saussure. Although they focus on the same...show more
content...
This idea is intrinsically related to the concepts of the sender and the viewer, which will be discussed in the next sections of this paper. The second
issue discussed by the art historians is the sender of a work. In this section, Bal and Bryson define and differentiate the composition of the ''artist'' of a
work. First, there is the concept of the sender as an individual, or J. Bloggs, as they call him. J. Bloggs stands for the name of the individual, ''a
designation, not a description;[...] it does not assign any particular characteristics to its bearer''(p.181). The second aspect of the sender is the author,
which is ''in the works, in a body of artifacts and in the complex operations performed on them''(p.181). It is the notions of enframement that
distinguishes J.Bloggs from the author, which is what Bal and Bryson identify as ''an elaborate work of framing, something we can elaborately produce
rather than something we simply find'' (p. 181). The art historian, Culler, explains that authorship is given, not produced, as he states that ''what counts
as authorship is determined by interpretative strategies''(p.181). Thus, in simpler terms, the author or artist could be produced in the sense that his
attributed works and other interpretable material, and ultimately produce a conception. Attributions are said to be evidenced through ''material traces of
the author in the work,
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Three Forms Of Semiotics
There have been several attempts to define semiotics and they all seem to share that semiotics is the scientific study of signs, sign processes like:
indication, designation, likeness, analogy, metaphor, signification and meaningful communication. Umberto Eco attests that "semiotics is concerned
with everything that can be taken as a sign (Eco 1976, p. 7)".
Semiotics, rather than dealing with the organization of signs, has to do with how meaning is produced, what makes an utterance meaningful, how it
signifies and what precedes it on a deeper level to result in the manifestation of meaning. It is based mainly on the notion that meaning is not inherent
in the objects, but is constructed by a competent observer called a subject who can give form...show more content...
All that can fall within the compass of human understanding, being either, first, the nature of things, as they are in themselves, their relations, and their
manner of operation: or, secondly, that which man himself ought to do, as a rational and voluntary agent, for the attainment of any end, especially
happiness: or, thirdly, the ways and means whereby the knowledge of both the one and the other of these is attained and communicated; I think
science may be divided properly into these three sorts (Locke 1999, p. 717)".
Nevertheless, it was only with the emergence of the theories and works of two seminal characters, viz. Charles Sanders Peirce (1839 – 1914) – an
American pragmatist philosopher – and Ferdinand de Saussure (1857 – 1913) – the Swiss linguist – and their attempts in the development of a formal
theory of semiotics that semiotics began to be considered as a separate field of research.
For Charles S. Peirce, semiotics was a scientific field of study where all signs and sign types could be explained scientifically and hence logically. Like
John Locke, Peirce defined semiotics as a doctrine of signs. He later went on to develop a semiotic triad:
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Example Of Semiotic Connotation
The following semiotic deconstruction analysis will advance through three stages, that being description, interpretation and evaluation. However prior
to this it is important to discuss the fact that we are now living in an era of an attention economy. In today's age, consumers are "overwhelmed by the
paradox of choice – so many choices to make, and no easy way to distinguish among the offerings" (Davenport, Harris 2009). Furthermore, since
consumers are bombarded with advert offering its important to avail of whatever attention a brand gets. Thus an attention economy is an approach of
management that treat human attention as scare resources and applies an economic theory to make use of that attention; hence the ability of the brand
to channel...show more content...
In such respect, a semiotic interpretation would first consist of a description of an image as noted by Schroeder (2002). In principle, the description of
the image would involve studying the aspects of the ad such as the layout, brand blocks used, imagery, tag line, language and among other traits can be
discussed. Volkswagenwas established in Wolfsburg in 1937, it is a German car manufacturer, which has uniquely adopted a wide spectrum of target
audiences. This spectrum goes from college students to professionals as well as to customers in the commercial area. Captivatingly, during the
1960–1970's much of Volkswagen'sadvertising was known to be very thought provoking while illustrating the utilitarian aspects of their vehicles,
however not going beyond the emotional meaning associated with owning a Volkswagen vehicle at that time. As you move through the years
Volkswagen has adopted a strategy in which they want to make people not only feel special if they own a Volkswagen but hoping to build an emotional
connection with their
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Semiotics Approach To Representation Analysis
Part 1
1.The name given to the approach of understanding representation as a sign system which has been developed by Saussure is called Semiotics.
2.The Semiotics approach to representation is based around three central ideas: The sign, signifier and signified. The signifier is the actual object or
material you are observing, using any of your senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste), it can be anything (text, music, images et cetera). The
signified is what you think of, feel or how you react when you see or hear it. The combination of these is what makes up the sign, the actual thing being
observed and what it evokes in you(Hall 1997: 31). For example, a traffic light (Hall 1997: 26). It utilizes three different colours (red, amber and...show
more content...
One example of a system of control is the punishment system. Multiple sources are available on the subject matter both in legal and everyday
circumstances (Hall 1997: 50). These sources impact how society views prisons and prisoners, therefore affecting how prisoners are treated and how
they are punished. Resulting in them being considered as less human than the rest of the community. Foucault discusses this in Discipline and
Punishment, speaking about how prisons have changed from being public, with public punishment (torture) and execution, to private (isolated and
individual) (Hall 1997:
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Semiotics In The Classroom
1. Reflecting back on this course, which theory is the most applicable to your theatre practice? Explain your choice, citing at least one theorist.
Provide one or two concrete examples of how you can apply the theory to your practice as an actor, director, playwright or drama teacher.
The most applicable theory to my own theatre practice would be queer theory, which I have written on several times through this semester – most
significantly and closely related being Winterson's Semiotics of sex. In particular, what really speaks to me is when Winterson says "In any discussion
of art and the artist, heterosexuality is backgrounded and homosexuality is foregrounded. " (Winterson, 104). I think this theory is most applicable to
my work and Winterson's...show more content...
As well, semiotics can be closely related to this show as there are so many different symbols from the rose to the magic wand and so on. One thing
I like to focus on when I am directing a show is character work and really developing a strong sense of who the characters are. And so it would be an
interesting exercise to pick out all of the symbols within the show and determine their significance to the characters.
As well, I think this show is really interesting because it has several aspects that are usually closely related to pantomime. This makes the show work
really well for younger audiences, however with the right choices it can work well for older audiences as well, as was seen this semester by the drama
department. And so, it would be interesting to work with these elements and figure out where the line is and what translate well to which kind of
audience.
Finally, from a technical standpoint the show poses a lot of challenges, such as the thought snatcher or the show within a show aspect, that would be a
lot of fun to play around with and find the right way to
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The term 'Semiotics' refers to the study of signs and symbols, the relationship between written or spoken signs and of the meanings that are created.
The essay will first of all try to give some definition a review of the main terminology used in the study of Semiotics and will then apply these to a
series of texts, relating to advertising for Coca Cola.
The basics of Semiotics were laid down by a Swiss linguist, Ferdinand De Saussure (1857–1913). "He used the word to describe a new science which
he saw as 'a science, which studies the life of signs at the heart of social life' [Saussure cited in Underwood] He considered that a sign had two
essential elements: the signifier and the signified. A signifier is any material thing that...show more content...
(Underwood Cultsock) Other terms relevant here are "Icon"–" signs whose signifiers bear a close resemblance to the thing referred to"(Underwood),
for example a road sign showing a man at work can be considered an 'iconic' sign and the term index –'an index is a sign whose signifier we have
learned to associate with a particular signified' (Underwood)
Coco Cola advertisement seemed a good choice of texts for analysis because of the nature of Coca Cola's approach to advertising. The famous logo
was created in 1885 and this together with the iconic shapes of the bottle and corporate colours have not really changed since then. The shape of the
bottle and logo colouring, instantly identifies it as Coco Cola. The advertisement analysed below is taken 'Vogue' Magazine (Issue November 2007)
and is for 'Diet Coke' which was a new venture for the company in 1982 and within two years 'Coke' had become the top low–calorie soft drink in the
world. Although "Coke" replaced the traditional name of "Coca Cola", the red is still used and silver replaces the white The traditional iconic and
immediately recognizable bottle shape has been kept. At the basic level of 'denotation' the bottle and the words 'Coke' and written text represent a
beverage and the bottle can be considered as an 'index' of drink. It can also be regarded as 'iconic' in that the shape if the bottle and distinctive logo are
immediately
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Semiotics And Semiotics

  • 1. Semiotics And Semiotics Semiotics Analysis Introduction Semiotics is the study of signs, symbols and gestures. This art is quite complex to understand. Knowing the foundations of semiotics poses a great challenge to scholars worldwide. Differentiating whether semiotics is a cult, philosophy, an uprising, or religion is very technical. In this essay I will be exploring key theorists and theories on semiotics, I will also be using some of these theories to deconstruct an image using semiotic analysis. With a great desire to know its origins, human beings are thriving to unearth reasons of their existence and where and how they came to being. Semiotics assist in unraveling this fact, just like the invention of science, myths, art and other languages, semiotics also forms part of the list (Danesi, 2004). Semiotics has had an application in our day–to–day activities. It has been applied in films production, theater industry, medicine, architectural activities, in zoology and other areas that are involved with or concerned of communication and information transfer (Berger, 2004). It can also be used by people who specialize in cognate disciplines such as psychology, anthropology, mythology and other literary studies (Danesi, 2004). Semiotics entirely revolves around the basic theories of sign, symbol and gesture. There are many semiotics theorists who include but not limited to Roland Barthes, Ferdinand de Saussure, Charles Sanders Peirce, Philip K. Dick, Dan Chandler, Ron Burnett are just but a few Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 2. Semiotics And Semiology : Semiotics Semiotics and Semiology Semiotics explores the connection and meaning between the signifier and the signified. Saussure explained that a sign was not only a sound–image but also a concept. Thus, he divided the sign into two components: the signifier (or "sound–image") and the signified (or "concept"). The functionality of our society revolves around the concept of signs and symbols (semiotics), which we use to communicate. Our communication is successful because of the mutual agreement formed by society on what the symbols and words of our language mean. Today, the signifier is interpreted as the material form (something which can be seen, heard, touched, smelled or tasted) and the signified as the mental concept. An everyday example...show more content... Cobb possesses one of the aforementioned totems (a spinning tractricoid top) – after awakening from a dream whilst trialling Yusuf's sedative, Cobb is seen attempting to frantically spin his top. Nolan employs diegetic sounds of Cobb gasping for air, as well as rapid camera transition and fast cutting of the montage to disorientate the audience (00:45:05). In doing so, a sense of energy and chaos is created to simulate Cobb's internal struggles with the paradigms of reality and illusion – Cobb is metaphorically "wrestling" with solipsism. He must assess whether he should accept his subconscious' adaptation of his spouse and children (supposedly a false reality) or continue to pursue his "real" wife and children. Regardless of either "realities", Cobb's totem is anomalous and discrepant in behaviour – to reiterate, every other totem in the film is designed to behave normally when in someone's dreams and abnormally in reality; Cobb's totem, on the other hand, is designed to topple over when he is awake and continue to spin indefinitely when he is still dreaming. During the denouement, a panning shot to the foreground is used as a vector to direct the audience's focus to the salient image of the spinning top, further emphasised by the shallow focus shot (02:30:37). Supposedly, we are able to discern whether Cobb is awake or dreaming depending on whether the top topples over or continues to spin. Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 3. Analysis Of Marc Jacobs Rhyme Advertisement The advertisement I chose for my semiotics analysis is a controversial Marc Jacobs perfume advertisement. It features Oh, Lola! Women's perfume. The advertisement involves sexualization of children as many sexally charged metaphors are planted intentionally. The model sits on a pink floor, against a pink background. She wears a translucent pink dress, and leans back slightly with her legs extended in front of her. She appears to wear a natural makeup that makes her look both juvenile and feminine. Her dress piled around her upper thighs as she is too young to understand how ladies sit properly in a dress. The entire scene is in shades of pink, which is the colour often associated with young girls. All these element are designed to make her Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 4. Semiotic Analysis Of An Advertisement Introduction Semiotics refers to the study of signs in culture, symbols and their use or interpretation. The following semiotic analysis of the advertisement for Frank Rippingille's patent cooking stoves and an image of the "Summer at the Cape of Good Hope–Afternoon tea on the stoep" by Renhardt, which proceeds by a description of the denotative meaning of the image and the advertisement and then followed by the interpretation of the connotative meaning by drawing on knowledge of the Victorian values (Walvin 1987). Semiotic analysis1: Summer at the Cape of Good Hope– Afternoon Tea on the Stoep. Denotation The lady on the right is sitting on a chair holding a fan on her right hand speaking to a man who is carrying a cup of tea. Further on behind them there are three men and one...show more content... These stoves were a product of the empire as they were manufactured in Birmingham in the 1880's (Oil cooking stoves[Sa]). By using these stoves it actually shows support to the empire and hence national pride (Walvin 1987). The woman who is handing out the stoves is Queen Victoria because of the crown on her head and the lion on her chair and lion represent royalty (Symbolic meaning of lions[Sa]). She was the Queen of Britain from 1837 to 1901 which was the second largest reign in the British monarch. The people who come from different cultures represent the different nations and this is justified by the text which states "Englands gift a blessing to all nations" Queen Victoria represents England and the gift is the stove. The smile on the man who is carrying a board while looking at Queen Victoria while she is handing out stoves shows that he is happy and he has a cheerful character. The black man who is receiving the stove is on his knees which expresses gratitude and shows good manners and respect to Queen Victoria, which is one of the Victorian values (Walvis Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 5. What is Semiotics, Semiology and Difference? In this paper I will define the Semiotics, Semiology and Difference then I will give the views and beliefs of the three of the masterminds behind these terms. Firstly, Semiology and Semiotics are two related disciplines, which study semiotics, the relation of significance involving signs, object and mind, and classification of signs. Semiotics is a synonym for Semiology. Semiotics is defined as the study of signs and symbols and their interpretation, while Semiology is semiotics, the study of signs. According to Swiss Linguist and Semiotician Ferdinand de Saussure semiotics is the science of signs. Saussure in Course in General Linguistics, said "the roles of signs are part of our social life". For him, sign has two parts, the signifier and the signified. The signifier is the physical form of the sign. The signified is the concept to which the signifier refers the meaning or idea it refers to in ...show more content... For him, Semiotics is a formal doctrine of sign, signs must have a "real connection with the thing it signifies." It is a much boarder clasof Saussure's signifier, as it extends into the physical as well. According to him, there is a third element that must be present for signification to take happen. This, additional element is the understanding of the relation between signifier and signified, he referred to this as the interpretant. The interpretant sheds light on the relationship between signifier and signified. Pierce admonishes that a sign or signifier must be interpreted in order to exist. The sign or signifier creates an interpretant and this in turn allows us to access it object or the signified. In other words, if the sign means something it requires somebody (a mind) signifying and something (an object) that is Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 6. Semiotics : Signs, Symbols And Gestures Semiotics is the study of signs, symbols and gestures. This art is quite complex to understand. Knowing the foundations of semiotics poses a great challenge to scholars worldwide. Differentiating whether semiotics is a cult, philosophy, an uprising, or religion is very technical. In this essay I will be exploring key theorists and theories on semiotics, I will also be using some of these theories to deconstruct an image using semiotic analysis. With a great desire to know its origins, human beings are thriving to unearth reasons of their existence and where and how they came to being. Semiotics assist in unraveling this fact, just like the invention of science, myths, art and other languages, semiotics also forms part of the list (Danesi, 2004). Semiotics has had an application in our day–to–day activities. It has been applied in films production, theater industry, medicine, architectural activities, in zoology and other areas that are involved with or concerned of communication and information transfer (Berger, 2004). It can also be used by people who specialize in cognate disciplines such as psychology, anthropology, mythology and other literary studies (Danesi, 2004). Semiotics entirely revolves around the basic theories of sign, symbol and gesture. There are many semiotics theorists who include but not limited to Roland Barthes, Ferdinand de Saussure, Charles Sanders Peirce, Philip K. Dick, Dan Chandler, Ron Burnett are just but a few of those who made an impact in Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 7. The Power of Semiotics Essay The Power of Semiotics The first ordinance of this class is to write a reflexive paper about semiotics as I, or as I try to, understand it. Being able to write a reflexive paper luckily does not imply that I hold a thorough understanding of the material. Or, for that matter, a thorough understanding of the material for which I am about to reflect. I hesitate, for one of the first times in my life, to say that I can write a paper about semiotics or reflecting about semiotics or critiquing semiotics. But as in all great journeys one must open the door and step outside to see the roller coaster that awaits. So here I go.... My first comments will come from my infinitesimally small perspective of the universe. But this is the case for...show more content... These signs were gathered examined and then a diagnosis was made. Yes this is similar or parallel to what Hippocrates was discussing, and what Umberto Eco described in the video clip shown in class on January 29. After the shock wore off I began to develop a deeper understanding and appreciation for semiotics. As I have read more about semiotics I see how it truly is in accordance with what I have experienced and learned in my life. Even to the point of where I was using it in my classroom, though, obviously I had no idea that I was doing it. I was teaching my students to read and interpret the signs /symbols of a problem: to examine each part in its environment and how to make a decision or derive an answer from the symbol(s). Yes, in mathematics most of the symbols (if I am using that correctly) are conventionally agreed upon for this country, but the students are bringing with them so much mathematical baggage that sometimes the symbols will continuously carry on the wrong concept. At least the wrong conventionally agreed upon concept. So I was more of an interpreter of signs for them until they could interpret the symbols themselves. ( I have always thought mathematics should be taught as a language or an interpretive decision making process, but I can't let that out because I would never get a job!!!) Simply, I am trying to state with my insanely limited knowledge about semiotics to this point, I see its involvement in my life and Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 8. Essay on Semiotics of Personal Objects Ever since I was a little girl, clothes and shoes have been important to me. I loved picking out my own outfits for school, and finding just the right color Keds or sandals to match. It truly was a passion. Even now, many years later, here I am, the same shopaholic and fashion maniac I have always been. After researching semiotics, which in short, is the method of interpreting signs and finding a deeper meaning in everyday activities, I realize, that my reasoning for choosing the clothes and shoes that I chose, is deeper, than just the fact that I looked cute, it was a choice of statements I was making each and every time. The question is what statements did I make? Recently, on a trip through Europe I bought myself some new...show more content... Not that I am out to make anyone think I have loads of money, but it feels good when people walk up to you and say things like, "Wow, I love your shoes. Diesel shoes are so awesome." It just makes you feel good, about the way you look and about your keen sense of fashion. Not that diesel shoes have always been this way, shifts in popularity make them the symbol that they are. When I wear thee shoes, I am saying that fashion is important enough to me that I am willing and able to spend hundreds of dollars on Page 2, Johnson shoes. Every outfit decision makes a statement, whether you realize it or not, and people form opinions and stereotypes about you based on those symbols whether they realize it or not. Not to say its right or wrong, it just is. Another item I wish to discuss, in semiotic terms are my old, faded, black sweat pants, or as I like to call them my comfy clothes. Now, there not new, hip or expensive, but they are some of my favorite pants in the whole world. I wear, them when I want to be comfortable and casual, and when I am not trying to impress anyone. I would never think of wearing them to work, church, or on a date. But why not? What make it okay to go shopping in, but not good enough for dinner and a movie with a guy. Well, before I knew about semiotics, I would say its just common sense, but now I know that it is deeper than that. When
  • 9. Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 10. Semiotics In Romeo And Juliet This essay will pose as a semiotic analysis of a famous quote from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet. Semiotics are commonly used in daily life, but often go unnoticed. Many quotes that are used by business professionals are quotes from famous writers such as Shakespeare. In Shakespeare's' Romeo and Juliet, the phrase "Go wisely and slowly. Those who rush stumble and fall." Resonated with me and is the phrase that I chose to analyze in this essay. The words and ideas that are signs in the quote are wisely, slowly, rush, stumble and fall. These words are signs in the quote because each word possesses an underlying meaning. In this essay, a semiotic analysis of the phrase from Romeo and Juliet will be provided as it relates to business professionals and what the phrase signifies when used in that context. Shakespeare suggests that wisely in this context signifies making smart, mature decisions in any given situation because each decision that is made can excel or hinder future endeavors. The pros and cons should be weighed before committing, in order to make a sound decision. Without proper information and guidance, one is essentially ignorant to the task at hand. For example, a mentor may be necessary because they may have accomplished a goal that you are aiming towards and can give advice on what you should and shouldn't do while trying to reach your goal. Furthermore, the word slowly signifies taking your time to accomplish tasks and goals. It takes a great amount of patience to see how things done now will pay off overall. Great things aren't accomplished overnight. From a business standpoint, it means that you must work your way to the top. The process may seem slow, but the progress is in constant evolution in preparation for the outcome. There is a stigma that has been placed upon individuals by society that to be successful, things must be accomplished quickly and if they aren't, then it equates to a lessened sense of success in some cases. Additionally, the word rush is a sign that signifies how sometimes as human beings with our longing for instant gratification, we tend to want to speed up the process without a second thought. People tend to rush the process of life to attain temporary happiness which Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 11. Semiotics : Signs And Symbols Semiotics is the study of signs and symbols. It explores how words and other signs make meaning. When it comes to the topic of semiotics, there are two main theories, founded by Ferdinand de Saussure and Charles Sanders Pierce. Both semiologists proposed their theories in the early 1900's. Saussure was a Swiss Linguist born in 1857. He created the Dyadic model of semiotics. His theory shows that a sign is made up of a matched pair, the signifier and the signified. The signifier is the word, whereas the signified is the physical object. When put together, they create a sign. His theory was published by his students after his death, entitled 'Cours de Linguistique Genereale'. Peirce created the triadic model of semilogical theory. He looked at the signs themselves, the way they were organised and the context in which they appear. His method involves categorising signs into 3 areas – Icon, Index and Symbol. Iconic signs speak about truth and reality. They physically represent the object for what it is. Examples of these are portraits, cartoons and photographs. Iconic words are also possible. For example, onomatopoeic words such as 'boom' or 'bang' can both be described as iconic language. An indexical sign is a direct link between the object and the sign itself. For example, footprints in sand – there is an indication that a form of physical reality has taken place. Symbolic signs have no connection between the sign and the meaning behind it. They thoroughly rely on the Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 12. Design: Representation and Semiotics Essay The phrase "what is design" has been contemplated constantly. Walking down the street, people see cars, buildings and advertisements; piece of artwork serving purposes in the daily lives. Throughout society, people are bombarded by a verity of designs captivating the users and manifesting itself within cultural space. It is a broad definition and this may be due to the existence of art, with the two forms sharing such similarities yet different quite distinctly. Designers create to capture users attention, but 'what is design?' When the term 'design' comes to mind, it could be difficult to define and is often misconstrue as a term for art, however they have two entirely different meanings. People understand that the only difference...show more content... In order to gratify the users, designers need to figure out what users need and want. They must think in a user and design perspective to mold a sustainable and user–friendly design that could be widely and economically used. Design can also represent a person, by giving the person an identity in the world. For example, one buys a recently launched electronic which is highly expensive for an average person to afford. By bringing the new product around and showing it to different types of people, the product gains more popularity and people think of this person as a high–income grosser (identity). The first thing that catches the users attention is the design of the product or its packaging. Companies are using design as a weapon to compete with their competitors for their products, in order get a share in the marketplace. The power of design thinking cannot be stopped. Users demand from design more and more everyday. Design is all about communication and semiotics is a key term that plays a huge role in the society. According to O'Brien and Szeman, semiotics "focuses in the way in which meaning is generated through the relationships between signs in a text" (O'Brien and Szeman, 76). Words and signage is a very powerful tool to communicate and to grab users attention. Signs can express how emotions and beliefs represent in different cultures. One important key reason is, if it is legible. Many designers tend to overlook this most Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 13. Fashion and Semiotics Essay Ever since their invention many centuries ago, clothes have been used as a way of communicating. The message communicated relies on a number of factors including the social background of both the communicator and the receiver, and the context in which the message is communicated. Although at times the exact message or symbolism one is trying to portray may not be clear, it is evident that clothing has long been embraced as one of the best ways to project one's desired personal image to those around them. For many centuries clothing was used namely as a form of symbolising one's ascribed class and social honour. A good example of this was evident in Feudal European times when sumptuary laws were created in order to regulate and specify...show more content... The way in which this honour was portrayed to the outside world involved elaborate and restrictive corsetry and bulky skirts for the women and patent shoes, gloves, top hats and suits for the men. Such clothing, especially that worn by women, was completely impractical for engaging in any form of physical labour. As a quote taken from Thorstein Veblen's 'The Theory of the Leisure Class' eloquently states, the general consensus of this era was that '...apparel is always in evidence and affords an indication of our pecuniary standing to all observers at first glance...dress, therefore, in order to serve its purpose effectively should not only be expensive, but it should also make plain to all observers that the wearer is not engaged in any kind of productive labour...' (www.pemberley.com/janeinfo/vebleis7.html). With the birth of industrialisation mass production became possible bringing fashion to the masses. Whilst such an innovation allowed for a cycle of innovation and change and provided a vehicle for the lower classes to dabble in reproductions of upper class fashions, there were still differences evident within the products, which ensured distinctions between classes could be made. Such symbolism included obvious differences in fabric and even sometimes, sewing quality. Other symbols that were highly prevalent in the late 18th century included ribbons and the number of buttons a man wore fastened on his coat or Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 14. Essay on A Critique on Semiotics Theory A Critique on Semiotics Theory In the early 1900s Ferdinand de Saussure coined the term semiology. Semiology is concerned with "anything that can stand for something else." French writer Roland Barthes concentrates on interpreting signs. His ultimate goal is to explain how seemingly straightforward signs pick up ideological or connotative meaning and work to maintain the cultural status quo. In the book, A First Look at Communication Theory, EmGriffin presents the semiotics theory then later goes on to critique it. As for myself, I believe Barthes' theory is right in some ways and in other ways is not. In Barthes' theory he states that a sign has a signifier and a signified. The signifier is something you can see and grasp. What...show more content... What he means by this is a sign starts out with a denotative meaning and through our interpretation it develops a connotative meaning. In his critique he goes on to say that it is possible a sign could start out "connotatively innocent." My opinion on the theory is the sign starts with a denotative meaning and can only have connotative meaning after we have assigned it meaning through our interpretation. An example of this is when I was in one of my communication classes and we read about the President going to visit another country. The President did not know it but our country's non–verbal sign to represent peace meant "screw you" in the other country. My point here is the non–verbal sign did not have meaning until our country or their country assigned it meaning. One aspect of Barthes' theory I would like to question is his statement about how a sign is anything that can stand for something else. I do not necessarily agree with this. An example would be a stoplight. Almost everywhere you go in the world a red light means stop. What this means are most people assign the same meaning to a red light. It doesn't stand for something else, it only stands for stop. Another example is the Red Cross symbol. The Red Cross stands for emergencies and medical help. I can't think of any instance when this sign stands for something else. I do believe that Barthes makes some good points in his theory but I also believe his theory could use some revision. In my opinion Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 15. Semiotics in Art History The Oxford English Dictionary defines semiotics as ''[the] science of communication studied through interpretation of signs and symbols as they operate in various fields, especially language." Semiology is characterized as ''the science of signs which studies the life of signs within society.'' Signs include, among others, sounds, images, words, odors, objects; they are concepts that stand for something else in a system of signification. They allow us to communicate a concept or an idea while it is physically absent. In art history, the simplest description of semiology consists of the translation of an image into words. Two prominent founders of the contemporary sign theories are Peirce and Saussure. Although they focus on the same...show more content... This idea is intrinsically related to the concepts of the sender and the viewer, which will be discussed in the next sections of this paper. The second issue discussed by the art historians is the sender of a work. In this section, Bal and Bryson define and differentiate the composition of the ''artist'' of a work. First, there is the concept of the sender as an individual, or J. Bloggs, as they call him. J. Bloggs stands for the name of the individual, ''a designation, not a description;[...] it does not assign any particular characteristics to its bearer''(p.181). The second aspect of the sender is the author, which is ''in the works, in a body of artifacts and in the complex operations performed on them''(p.181). It is the notions of enframement that distinguishes J.Bloggs from the author, which is what Bal and Bryson identify as ''an elaborate work of framing, something we can elaborately produce rather than something we simply find'' (p. 181). The art historian, Culler, explains that authorship is given, not produced, as he states that ''what counts as authorship is determined by interpretative strategies''(p.181). Thus, in simpler terms, the author or artist could be produced in the sense that his attributed works and other interpretable material, and ultimately produce a conception. Attributions are said to be evidenced through ''material traces of the author in the work, Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 16. Three Forms Of Semiotics There have been several attempts to define semiotics and they all seem to share that semiotics is the scientific study of signs, sign processes like: indication, designation, likeness, analogy, metaphor, signification and meaningful communication. Umberto Eco attests that "semiotics is concerned with everything that can be taken as a sign (Eco 1976, p. 7)". Semiotics, rather than dealing with the organization of signs, has to do with how meaning is produced, what makes an utterance meaningful, how it signifies and what precedes it on a deeper level to result in the manifestation of meaning. It is based mainly on the notion that meaning is not inherent in the objects, but is constructed by a competent observer called a subject who can give form...show more content... All that can fall within the compass of human understanding, being either, first, the nature of things, as they are in themselves, their relations, and their manner of operation: or, secondly, that which man himself ought to do, as a rational and voluntary agent, for the attainment of any end, especially happiness: or, thirdly, the ways and means whereby the knowledge of both the one and the other of these is attained and communicated; I think science may be divided properly into these three sorts (Locke 1999, p. 717)". Nevertheless, it was only with the emergence of the theories and works of two seminal characters, viz. Charles Sanders Peirce (1839 – 1914) – an American pragmatist philosopher – and Ferdinand de Saussure (1857 – 1913) – the Swiss linguist – and their attempts in the development of a formal theory of semiotics that semiotics began to be considered as a separate field of research. For Charles S. Peirce, semiotics was a scientific field of study where all signs and sign types could be explained scientifically and hence logically. Like John Locke, Peirce defined semiotics as a doctrine of signs. He later went on to develop a semiotic triad: Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 17. Example Of Semiotic Connotation The following semiotic deconstruction analysis will advance through three stages, that being description, interpretation and evaluation. However prior to this it is important to discuss the fact that we are now living in an era of an attention economy. In today's age, consumers are "overwhelmed by the paradox of choice – so many choices to make, and no easy way to distinguish among the offerings" (Davenport, Harris 2009). Furthermore, since consumers are bombarded with advert offering its important to avail of whatever attention a brand gets. Thus an attention economy is an approach of management that treat human attention as scare resources and applies an economic theory to make use of that attention; hence the ability of the brand to channel...show more content... In such respect, a semiotic interpretation would first consist of a description of an image as noted by Schroeder (2002). In principle, the description of the image would involve studying the aspects of the ad such as the layout, brand blocks used, imagery, tag line, language and among other traits can be discussed. Volkswagenwas established in Wolfsburg in 1937, it is a German car manufacturer, which has uniquely adopted a wide spectrum of target audiences. This spectrum goes from college students to professionals as well as to customers in the commercial area. Captivatingly, during the 1960–1970's much of Volkswagen'sadvertising was known to be very thought provoking while illustrating the utilitarian aspects of their vehicles, however not going beyond the emotional meaning associated with owning a Volkswagen vehicle at that time. As you move through the years Volkswagen has adopted a strategy in which they want to make people not only feel special if they own a Volkswagen but hoping to build an emotional connection with their Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 18. Semiotics Approach To Representation Analysis Part 1 1.The name given to the approach of understanding representation as a sign system which has been developed by Saussure is called Semiotics. 2.The Semiotics approach to representation is based around three central ideas: The sign, signifier and signified. The signifier is the actual object or material you are observing, using any of your senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell, taste), it can be anything (text, music, images et cetera). The signified is what you think of, feel or how you react when you see or hear it. The combination of these is what makes up the sign, the actual thing being observed and what it evokes in you(Hall 1997: 31). For example, a traffic light (Hall 1997: 26). It utilizes three different colours (red, amber and...show more content... One example of a system of control is the punishment system. Multiple sources are available on the subject matter both in legal and everyday circumstances (Hall 1997: 50). These sources impact how society views prisons and prisoners, therefore affecting how prisoners are treated and how they are punished. Resulting in them being considered as less human than the rest of the community. Foucault discusses this in Discipline and Punishment, speaking about how prisons have changed from being public, with public punishment (torture) and execution, to private (isolated and individual) (Hall 1997: Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 19. Semiotics In The Classroom 1. Reflecting back on this course, which theory is the most applicable to your theatre practice? Explain your choice, citing at least one theorist. Provide one or two concrete examples of how you can apply the theory to your practice as an actor, director, playwright or drama teacher. The most applicable theory to my own theatre practice would be queer theory, which I have written on several times through this semester – most significantly and closely related being Winterson's Semiotics of sex. In particular, what really speaks to me is when Winterson says "In any discussion of art and the artist, heterosexuality is backgrounded and homosexuality is foregrounded. " (Winterson, 104). I think this theory is most applicable to my work and Winterson's...show more content... As well, semiotics can be closely related to this show as there are so many different symbols from the rose to the magic wand and so on. One thing I like to focus on when I am directing a show is character work and really developing a strong sense of who the characters are. And so it would be an interesting exercise to pick out all of the symbols within the show and determine their significance to the characters. As well, I think this show is really interesting because it has several aspects that are usually closely related to pantomime. This makes the show work really well for younger audiences, however with the right choices it can work well for older audiences as well, as was seen this semester by the drama department. And so, it would be interesting to work with these elements and figure out where the line is and what translate well to which kind of audience. Finally, from a technical standpoint the show poses a lot of challenges, such as the thought snatcher or the show within a show aspect, that would be a lot of fun to play around with and find the right way to Get more content on HelpWriting.net
  • 20. The term 'Semiotics' refers to the study of signs and symbols, the relationship between written or spoken signs and of the meanings that are created. The essay will first of all try to give some definition a review of the main terminology used in the study of Semiotics and will then apply these to a series of texts, relating to advertising for Coca Cola. The basics of Semiotics were laid down by a Swiss linguist, Ferdinand De Saussure (1857–1913). "He used the word to describe a new science which he saw as 'a science, which studies the life of signs at the heart of social life' [Saussure cited in Underwood] He considered that a sign had two essential elements: the signifier and the signified. A signifier is any material thing that...show more content... (Underwood Cultsock) Other terms relevant here are "Icon"–" signs whose signifiers bear a close resemblance to the thing referred to"(Underwood), for example a road sign showing a man at work can be considered an 'iconic' sign and the term index –'an index is a sign whose signifier we have learned to associate with a particular signified' (Underwood) Coco Cola advertisement seemed a good choice of texts for analysis because of the nature of Coca Cola's approach to advertising. The famous logo was created in 1885 and this together with the iconic shapes of the bottle and corporate colours have not really changed since then. The shape of the bottle and logo colouring, instantly identifies it as Coco Cola. The advertisement analysed below is taken 'Vogue' Magazine (Issue November 2007) and is for 'Diet Coke' which was a new venture for the company in 1982 and within two years 'Coke' had become the top low–calorie soft drink in the world. Although "Coke" replaced the traditional name of "Coca Cola", the red is still used and silver replaces the white The traditional iconic and immediately recognizable bottle shape has been kept. At the basic level of 'denotation' the bottle and the words 'Coke' and written text represent a beverage and the bottle can be considered as an 'index' of drink. It can also be regarded as 'iconic' in that the shape if the bottle and distinctive logo are immediately Get more content on HelpWriting.net