Dictionary of Semiotics

by Bronwen Martin, Felizitas Ringham (Contributor)

A much-needed guide to the terms and models used in the semiotic approach. Over the past few decades, semiotics has increasingly gained in popularity and yet, to many, the very term remains an enigma. But, until now, there has never been a dictionary that simply expresses the terms and models. The Dictionary of Semiotics' entries are based on the theory evolved by the Paris School of semiotics founded by A.J. Greimas. This invaluable guide combines a wordbook with detailed explanation of theory and a host of practical illustrations-all accessible to students of all levels. A specialized lexicon of semiotics' metalanguage follows an initial definition of the concept, coupled with a brief historical overview of the elaboration of European semiotic theory. The definitions are expressed in lucid terms and further clarified by easily understood examples. Finally, a semiotic analysis of "Sleeping Beauty" provides a practical example of the method, both illustrating how semiotic models can be helpful in probing effects of meaning on the textual surface and showing how to integrate them into wider contexts.

192 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 1999

Reviews

[Gadeer Al-Shathry · Rating 2 out of 5]

a must-have book, especially for people who are interested in Semiotics. They will be faced with a wide range of new lexical terms. The book begins with an introduction about the field, its historical development, and the theoretical principles which underpin Semiotics. The second section is an alphabetical dictionary for major-specific lexical terms, with illustration and examples. The last part is an application of semiotic analysis of the fairy-tale Sleeping Beauty.

[Pirate Hat Hughes · Rating 5 out of 5]

A solid source of reference for those trying to stretch their minds.