This document discusses concepts related to media language and semiotics. It explains that semiotics examines private, mental signs versus public spoken or written signs used to communicate meaning. Genres rely on signs, signifiers, and signifying practices, which define a genre. Saussure noted the gap between what is displayed in society and how humans derive meaning from it. Signifiers are physical objects that convey a signified meaning or concept. Mise-en-scene refers to everything placed within a scene, including settings, props, costumes, lighting, positioning of characters and objects, which can convey hidden meanings and manipulate audience expectations beyond what is literally depicted.