Symbolism, Iconography

Abstract

A map is a mediation between a situation and a map user. This mediation is effected by the functioning of the map as a sign composed of constituent signs; the latter are commonly referred to as map symbols. There are theoretic, mechanical, and practical aspects to map symbolization, all three of which must be addressed in the composition of a map. Theoretic concerns are grounded in the science of signs, known as semiology or semiotics. This science provides useful models for sign function, and thus for understanding the complex activity of communication. Understanding of the mechanics of map symbol function grows from the principles of Gestalt psychology, which describes the manner in which visual stimuli are organized and coherently understood by the viewer. A model of sign types is also instrumental in recognizing how the different map signs operate and interact. Practically, a vocabulary of the variable aspects of map symbols, and a grammar for construction of the map composition syntagam , is of great utility. Finally, the map user must have access to the symbolic construct, and this can be effected through employment of convention and by making the particulars of the scheme employed available to the potential user.