The document discusses denotation and connotation in media texts. Denotation refers to the basic or literal meaning, while connotation involves deeper or suggested meanings beyond the surface. Semiotics is defined as the study of signs and symbols, which always have denotations and connotations. The meaning of signs depends on one's background and culture. A juxtaposition involves placing two things together to emphasize either their contrasts or comparative links. Web links are provided for further information on semiotics, denotation and connotation.

1. Denotation &
Connotation
How...? What...? When...? Where...?
Which…? Who...? Why...?

2. Denotation
Denotation is...
- The basic, literal or surface meaning.
- It is the first thing that we see or understand
within a media text.
Connotation is...
- The hidden or deeper meaning of a media text, or
something that the text may suggest.
- It is the message or meaning that goes beyond
the denotation.

5. Young Farmers On Their Way To
A Dance, by August Sander,
1914.

6. The Link with Semiotics
Semiotics...
- Semiotics is the study of signs and symbols.
- These signs and symbols will always have
denotations and connotations because they are
codes.
- Remember that the meaning of a sign is
determined by the reader’s culture, background or
life experience.
- Signs are not fixed, but always polysemic (having
several meanings and associations).

8. Juxtaposition
A juxtaposition is...
- The placing together of two or more things in order
to emphasize the contrast between them.
OR…
- The placing together of two or more things in order
to make a comparative link between them.

10. Web Pages
Semiotics for Beginners
http://www.aber.ac.uk/media/Documents/S4B/
sem06.html
An Introduction to Denotation and Connotation
http://classweb.gmu.edu/bhawk/101/semiotics/
decon.html