Roland Barthes Theory

Roland Barthes: The language of signs.

*He argued that verbal language is just one way of communicating, other conclude:

• Hairstyles
• Clothing
• Body Language
• Make-up

Language is constructed by people to produce meanings within their coulture. It is only when we name objects and events that a defination is made.

3 parts to every sign.

• The signifier - The physical form of the sign
• The signified - The concept or idea that the signifier produces
• The referent - The real thing, not the signal or the idea but the real individual thing.

Different cultures, different meanings...

* Shoes considered offensive

* Flag as a sacred object

* Making eye contact considered offensive

* White symbolising

Signifer Signified

A red nose Love

An empty chair Loneliness

A shaved head My dad?

A leather jacket Biker (charlie?)