The document discusses Roland Barthes' theory of semiotics and codes within narratives. It provides examples of four types of codes: 1) The hermeneutic (enigma) code which creates mystery and suspense; 2) The proairetic (action) code which builds tension; 3) The symbolic codes which provide deeper meanings; 4) The cultural (referential) code which relies on audience's pre-existing knowledge. These codes provide extra layers of meaning and understanding to the narrative.

1. By Will Slocombe
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wl5EDzss4-Q
ROLAND BARTHES: SEMIOTICS

2. THE HERMENEUTIC (ENIGMA) CODE
An element of story that creates a mystery and intrigue for the audience. Unanswered
enigmas can become frustrating for the audience.
I believe this is enigma
code because it creates
suspense and mystery as
to whether the French staff
is going to stab the English
chef.

3. THE PROAIRETIC (ACTION) CODE
A proairetic code is a code that builds tension and indicates that something else is
going to happen.
When the hotel manager meets his old friend (the swimmer), the manager looks
around to see if anyone is looking at him. He then acts the uncomfortable and
agitated around his old ‘friend’. This creates tension because the audience does
not know why the manager is acting in this way.

4. THE SYMBOLIC CODES
Organises semantic meanings into a broader and deeper level of meaning.
3The two piles of money notes symbolise the criminality that is going on in this
scene, as people hardly use that amount of cash for legitimate reasons.

5. THE CULTURAL (REFERENTIAL) CODE
This code refers to pre-existing knowledge that the audience may have to make sense of the
text. This usually involves science or religious knowledge.
An example of this is the argument between the French and English chefs, which represents
the hostile Anglo-French relationship which majority of British people are already aware of.

6. THE SEMANTIC CODE
This code refers to connotations within the narrative that give extra information or meaning to
the text.