Semiotic Research Articles

Image-centrism in Africa’s political communication: a social semiotic analysis of self-presentation practices by women political candidates in Kenya’s social media space

ABSTRACT This study explores self-visual presentation practices by female political candidates on Facebook during Kenya’s political campaigns that culminated in the national elections of 2022. The unit of analysis is the Facebook profile image of the women leaders. Image-centrism is operationalized as the extent to which ‘the image’ becomes the primary mode of self-presentation in political communication discourse. The study adopts a social semiotic approach to image interpretation postulated by Roland Barthes (1972. Mythologies. (A. Lavers. Trans) (Original work published 1957), 1977. Rhetoric of the image. In Image, music, text (pp. 32–51). Hill and Wang) and Kress and van Leeuwen (1996. Reading images: The grammar of visual design. Routledge, 2006. Reading images: The grammar of visual design (2nd ed.). Routledge). Using Kress and van Leeuwen’s approach, images are studied as ‘linguistic codes’ that have their own ‘grammatical’ structure. Barthes’s approach explores the cultural dimension of the images. The argument here is that visual communication is context-bound, and the theoretical premise laid is that politics is given direction, shape, and impetus by the culture of a people. In order to understand visual political communication in Kenya, therefore, the study analyses and interprets images from the lens of the wider African cultural contexts within which this communication takes place. The overarching questions in this study include: How did female politicians in Kenya strategically use Facebook images for self-representation during the political campaigns in 2022? How have women politicians in Kenya interwoven cultural ideology with visual political communication on their Facebook pages? The ultimate conclusion is that political images not only serve as discourses for communicating political ideas and making political statements, but they also serve as self-representation modes as well as cultural manifestation codes that illuminate specific societal concepts.

Role of Symbolism in Reader Understanding and Interpretation in Nigeria

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the role of symbolism in reader understanding and interpretation in Nigeria. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The role of symbolism in reader understanding and interpretation is profound, as symbols serve as powerful tools for conveying deeper meanings and themes within literary works. Through symbolism, authors imbue objects, characters, and events with additional layers of significance, allowing readers to engage with the text on multiple levels. Symbolism facilitates the exploration of complex ideas, emotions, and societal issues, often transcending language barriers and resonating with diverse audiences. Moreover, it encourages readers to actively participate in the interpretation process, fostering personal connections and insights that enrich their reading experiences. Consequently, the study of symbolism underscores its crucial role in shaping reader comprehension and interpretation, highlighting its capacity to evoke profound reflections on the human condition and the world around us. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Reader-response theory, semiotic theory and cognitive theory of metaphor may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the role of symbolism in reader understanding and interpretation in Nigeria. Educators should implement evidence-based instructional strategies for teaching symbolism in educational settings, including guided discussion, close reading, and scaffolded instruction. Educational policymakers should consider integrating symbolism into curriculum standards and assessments to ensure that students develop symbolic literacy skills alongside other critical reading competencies.

Literasi Produk Halal Dalam Pemberitaan Media Online di Provinsi Jambi Tahun 2021 (Pendekatan Discourse Analysis)

Halal literacy is a person's knowledge and understanding of a product being consumed. Whether a product is halal or haram is not only seen from the halal label, understanding the halal product for someone who consumes it is also important. With the development of halal literacy in society now through online media. Meanwhile, currently there is still very little news about halal products or the halal industry in online media in Jambi that discusses halal product discourse in making news about halal products. Based on the data we obtained from news about halal products in online media in Jambi in 2021, there were only 21 news related to halal products that were published by 20 media. Grouped into 4 groups of issues in online media in Jambi in 2021, namely first, Advancing Jambi MSMEs to superior sharia products. Second, the Jambi MSME Organization encourages the birth of young entrepreneurs to become drivers or drivers of the sharia economy in Jambi. Third, Violating product guarantees aims to find out whether an item is halal or not by including a halal label and expiration date on the packaging. Fourth, the halal industry aims to become the world's leading sharia economic center. Based on data analysis, this research is qualitative research, with van Dijk's critical linguistic analysis model such as critical semiotic analysis, language, discourse, communication and other social sciences. This research analyzes the discourse on halal products, namely providing an overview and explanation, then analyzing it to draw conclusions.

Youth Representative of Verbal and Visual Signs on Music Concert Posters: A Semiotic Analysis

Youth Representative of Verbal and Visual Signs on Music Concert Posters: A Semiotic Analysis

A Semiotic Analysis of Social Class Representation in Pakistani Television Commercials

Semiotics interprets that how different signs are used in everyday lives to represent different things. Different verbal and non-verbal signs are used to reflect different ideologies and hidden agendas in the field of advertisements. The meanings and hidden agendas of TV commercials can be analysed in a more appropriate and effective way by considering semiotics as an influential tool of investigation. The enterprises of different domains as semiotics, linguistics and sociocultural studies make the current study as a multidisciplinary study. Media has become one of the most influential and feasible tool in the diffusion and representation of information and ideas in this globalised world with the advancement of science and technology. It encompasses strength and power to present different ideologies and agendas with the help of different verbal and non-verbal signs. The current study aims to analyse the demonstration of social class distinctive patterns in Pakistani television commercials. The study examines the representation of different social classes in the commercials by keeping in view the agendas and ideologies of advertisers. The nature of the study is qualitative. The theory of semiotics proposed by Dyer (1982) in the book advertising as Communication is the basis of the theoretical framework of the study. The commercials of renowned Pakistani television channels are collected as the data of the study. Non probability sampling technique is used to collect the data which comprises only those commercials which reflect social class representation. The analysis of the study highlights that different social classes as upper and lower classes are represented in different spheres of lives at symbolic level in the selected advertisements. The social class presentation in commercials represent the domination and superiority of upper class. The images of both upper and lower classes presented in the commercials support ideological beliefs about how social class biased practices are prevailed in the Pakistani society.

Finding the Next Successor: Visual Message in Caricature Image

Caricature is a form of visual communication wherein messages are conveyed through exaggerated and often humorous distortions of characters, serving as a critique of societal issues. Caricature often serves to critique various aspects of society, including social, cultural, economic, legal, and political conditions. Similarly, the political landscape surrounding the 2024 general election has intensified, fostering active and diverse discussions through both direct and indirect media channels. Mass media visualizes the very busy pros and cons of the Indonesian future successors. The proponents and the supported people are arguing and the one that can represent them will be the leader of government in 2024-2029. Funny, amusing, and intriguing caricature images in National Mass Media are interesting to study to see how the interpretation on the form of a caricature object is using the meaningful visual signs. This research was limited to caricature images by a cartoonist, Kang Yuyun, that was published in TEMPO National mass media in January-June 2023. The object of illustrative image was limited using a purposive sample that is considered representing the objective of research. The data mining was carried out through observation, interview, document, and literature. Observation was conducted directly in Tempo’s Office, Jakarta; interview was conducted online with the cartoonist; document included the caricature images that have been published on Sunday; and literature came from scientific works such as journal, proceeding, and books. All data were collected to be validated using triangulation and then analyzed using Roland Barthes’ semiotic theory about denotation, connotation, and myth. The findings reveal that Kang Yuyun’s caricature images in TEMPO mass media during the 2024 General Election depict three groups supporting Ganjar Pranowo, Prabowo Subianto, and Anis Bawesdan as potential successors, emphasizing unity in nation-building and promotion. Keywords: caricature, mass media, the successor, semiotics

The Value of Character Education in Wayang Beber Pacitan Ninth Scene

Wayang beber Pacitan is a type of wayang that has existed since the Majapahit era. This type of wayang is a painting which is divided into 24 scenes. Each scene has a main character and supporting characters. Each character possesses different characteristics. The purpose of this study is to find out and describe the main characters in the ninth scene of wayang beber Pacitan, namely, Prabu Brawijaya and Prabu Klana. This study follows the qualitative descriptive research methodology. Several data collection techniques were used, for example, observation, interviews, and document analysis. Purposive sampling was used as a sampling technique. Interactive analysis methods, with Roland Barthes’s semiotic theory, namely, through denotative, connotative, and mythical stages, were used for data analysis. Moreover, triangulation was used for data validation. The research concludes that the characters in the ninth scene can be divided into two, namely, Prabu Brawijaya, as the protagonist, and Prabu Klana, as the antagonist. Prabu Brawijaya, as the protagonist, has the character of being careful, wise, and alert, while Prabu Klana, as the antagonist, has the character of being easily angry, self-willed, and arrogant. The ninth scene of wayang beber Pacitan teaches us about the value of character education so one should always be careful in acting and wise in making decisions and should not be arrogant and selfish as this will have a negative impact on oneself and others. Apart from being an entertainment medium, wayang beber performances can also be used as a medium to convey moral messages. Through stories and understanding the characters in each scene, it can be used as a medium of character education. Keywords: antagonist, character, protagonist, scene, wayang beber

Interpreting the Nasib Kulo Song of Kemas Anwar Beck in Bebaso (Semiotics Study)

A song is composed of a series of tones that form a melody and support musical elements. It uses the tones of a human voice to beautifully and meaningfully express thoughts or feelings The combination of a song with a lively poem (text) can stir up a lot of emotions in the audience and have a major effect on their soul. This study aims to explore the emotions evoked by Kemas Anwar Beck’s lyrics for his song Nasib Kulo and how his experiences show up in using language and wordplay to give his lyrics a unique and appealing quality. The study focuses on analyzing the content of the song lyrics and interpreting their meaning in a qualitative descriptive manner. A semiotic theory is used to decipher the meaning of the lyrics that were penned in polite Palembang Alus language. Moreover, a musicology approach is also used to analyze the musical form. The results show that the song Nasib Kulo uses two types of symbols, namely, verbal meaning in the form of poetry or lyrics and non-verbal meaning in the form of song elements, that is, chord progression, melody, tempo, and dynamics. As a result of the creativity of the artist, the mindset of life conception and lifestyle are reflected in his artwork. In conclusion, the song Nasib Kulo that is written in Palembang Alus language is very influential for individuals and communities. Keywords: interpretation, Nasib Kulo song, semiotics, artists, Palembang Alus

Analyzing Students’ Thinking in Mathematical Problem Solving Using Vygotskian Sociocultural Theory

Objective: This study aims to investigate students' thinking in solving mathematical problem solving (MPS) using the Vygotskian sociocultural theory (SCT) in the form of mathematical objects. Method: This qualitative study involved 34 high school students in Palembang, 20 female and 14 male students. Data were obtained from students' work and video recordings when students solved problems. The analysis of students' work was reviewed from the semiotic system to see the students' semiotics, including languages (natural and alphanumeric), concepts and propositions, procedures, and arguments. The video recordings were analyzed to assess communication and collaboration among students during problem-solving activities. Research Findings and Discussions: Analyzing students' work and video recordings revealed significant insights into their problem-solving strategies and sociocultural interactions. Through semiotic analysis, it was possible to observe how students expressed and communicated mathematical ideas. Moreover, examining video recordings elucidated communication and collaboration dynamics within the classroom context. These findings shed light on the effectiveness of integrating Mathematical Problem Solving (MPS) with Socio-Cultural Theory (SCT) principles in fostering algebraic thinking and enhancing students' mathematical abilities. Research Implication: The findings of this study hold implications for both research and practice in mathematics education. They provide valuable insights for designing instructional approaches that promote collaborative problem-solving and facilitate the development of algebraic thinking skills. Additionally, the application of Vygotskian SCT in mathematics classrooms offers a promising avenue for cultivating a supportive sociocultural environment conducive to learning. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing literature by offering a comprehensive exploration of MPS through the lens of Vygotskian SCT, mainly focusing on using mathematical objects as mediational tools. By examining students' semiotic systems and sociocultural interactions, this research enhances our understanding of the complex processes involved in mathematical problem-solving and underscores the importance of sociocultural factors in shaping students' mathematical experiences.

Linguistic Uniscape: A Comparative Study of Universities in Thailand

Abstract This study examines the linguistic landscape (ll) of university campuses in Thailand and proposes the term “linguistic uniscape” (lu). It attempts to examine whether there is a significant difference in the code preference for signage between the public universities (puu s) and the private universities (pru s) in Thailand and examines the different social meanings of the signage at the puu s and at the pru s by using place semiotics (ps) theory. A total of 30 university campuses were investigated, including 15 puu s and 15 pru s. The results revealed a significant difference in the use of English as the preferred language on the signage at the two types of universities. The signage at both types of universities revealed the different social meanings in language policy, institutional policy, and identity constructions. The puu s focused on academic development, while the pru s focused on the students’ social activities.

Semiotic mediation of gestures in the teaching of early algebra: the case of the equal sign

Semiotic mediation of gestures in the teaching of early algebra: the case of the equal sign

The Symbolic Meaning of the Batara Munasiah Dance and Its Relevance to Generation Z Characters in South Sulawesi

The aim of this research is firstly to analyze and explain in a complex way the meaning of denotation, connotation, and myth contained in the Batara dance and secondly, namely the relevance of the Batara dance to the character of Generation Z in South Sulawesi. The research method used is qualitative from the perspective of Roland Barthes' Semiotics theory. The data collected also used a participatory observation process, structured interviews unstructured interviews, and content analysis which still has a connection and relationship with a dance performance, especially the Batara Munasiah dance. The results of the research explain the explanation of the meaning contained in the Batara Munasiah Dance performance in terms of denotation, connotation, and myth. Explaining the Batara dance starts from the history of the development of the Batara dance itself to its relationship and relevance to the character of Generation Z in South Sulawesi. As for the meaning contained in the Batara dance, as follows: (1) a feeling of gratitude towards God Almighty, (2) happiness when given a good life, (3) the process of approaching oneself with God Almighty, nature, and the social environment around (4 ) Respect for oneself/self-control in behavior and relationships, (5) respect for elders, (6) always involve God Almighty in all our activities both when starting and finishing them. The second covers a relationship or relevance to the lifestyle of Generation Z today: (1) Forms of worship of God Almighty, (2) Forms of socializing with the environment and surrounding community, (3) Maintaining the values of ancestors that are still relevant. and provide a positive reflection of life, (4) Always pray and hope only in God Almighty, (5) a simple lifestyle and character is a good thing.

Psychological mechanism and cognitive basis of humorous speech

To more clearly present the psychological mechanism and cognitive basis of humorous speech, this study measured college students using various scales, discussed the role of humorous coping in resolving their social anxiety and regulating their mental health, and attempted to construct a cognitive symbol working model from three dimensions: theory of innocence, modern semiotics, and conceptual integration theory. We used the proposed model to present the psychological mechanism and cognitive basis of humorous speech. This study found that humor coping is positively correlated with college students’ social anxiety, which is positively correlated with mental health. Affinity humor style and humor coping can positively predict college students’ communication anxiety, but affinity humor style has better predictive power. This research held that relevance is the general principle of communicative cognition and has become a space of conceptual synthesis network. The combination of conceptual fusion and deviation theory with conventional theory can help us better understand verbal humor and reveal its cognitive basis. There is a close relationship between humorous language and human psychological mechanisms. Finally, there is also a clear relationship between different psychological mechanisms and the structure of humorous language.

Iconographical Study and Semiotic Analysis of Princess Khnumet’s Diadem from the 12th Dynasty, Middle Kingdom

This study identifies unique aspects present in Princess Khnumet’s diadem through a hybrid approach incorporating Van Straten’s four-phase iconographic methodology and semiotics. Van Straten’s first phase identifies the materials, colours, and techniques that are present in Khnumet’s diadem. The second phase deals with the iconographic significance of the colours and motifs on the jewellery piece. The third phase discusses the use of iconographical themes to identify a theme that represented Khnumet’s diadem in its entirety. The fourth phase makes use of the historical, cultural, and social background of the Twelfth Dynasty, Middle Kingdom, to determine the influences that may have affected the design of the jewellery piece. Lastly, the discussion identifies how certain aspects were repeatedly present in Khnumet’s diadem, from which one can deduce how certain themes were predominantly selected. This study thus illustrates that the individual motifs are interconnected to the broader iconographical theme within a jewellery piece.

New times in old forests: How the past matters in European forest science

This article tracks changing conceptions of time in European forest science over recent decades, and accounts for how they can affect forest conservation and management. Through semiotic analysis of 62 peer-reviewed articles published in ecology and forestry, we (1) characterize the temporal features of old European forests as they evolve over our study period (1997–2017), and (2) trace how new and changing temporalities in forest science have reconfigured what constitutes a problem for conservationists and managers. We describe in particular how two articulations of forest time and forest management—Forest Continuity and Forest Maturity—have evolved, identifying the emergence of two new temporalities in old forest science. Over the study period, changing conceptions of forest pasts have increasingly led to consider forests as complex and evolving ecosystems from which humans cannot be excluded.

THE FILM 'PESANTREN' AND RELIGIOUS TOLERANCE IN INDONESIA: REALITY, REPRESENTATION AND IDEOLOGY

This article aims to explain the form of religious tolerance values in the documentary film 'Pesantren' which was released in 2022. This film is interesting because it reveals the educational side of religious tolerance in Indonesia, which shows another side of pesantren, which is considered by some to be a hotbed of indoctrination of radical and fundamental religious views. Through descriptive qualitative method, this article focuses on the value of religious tolerance in the film presented through verbal and non-verbal signs. The data is analyzed using John Fiske's semiotic theory that explains the codes of television, namely the level of reality, the level of representation and the level of ideology. This theory is useful to reveal the meaning behind each scene. This article shows that in the film Pesantren, the value of tolerance is more dominant after reading the ideology stage. The value of tolerance in the film is present in the frame of inter and intra-religious tolerance. The value is instilled in three major narratives, namely: respecting differences of opinion, avoiding fanaticism because God's love is also unlimited, preaching with good words and staying away from discrimination against people of different beliefs.

COSTUME AS A CHARACTER: COMMUNICATING THROUGH COSTUME IN IYOBINTE PUSTHAKAM

Costumes which are the distinctive style of dressing is one of the many tools the film director has to tell the story in films. Costumes can communicate the details of a character’s personality to the audience and facilitate actors transform into new and believable personalities on the screen Brownie & Graydon (2016). Costumes give a visual impact on the film audience and more than just dressing an actor, costume design extends the main themes of the film in a subtly effective way, it can progress the character in a story without dialogue, costumes may not be memorable as dance sequences or banter but it can recreate time and space. While looking deeper into the costumes of the character it might be a surprise to explore a person’s politics, education, personality, social status, hierarchy, politics, and many more about the particular role played by the character. The need for communication is for the designers to effectively design the costumes. This article explores a Semiotic Analysis of how the costumes communicate the character development progresses in the Malayalam film “IYOBINTE PUSTHAKAM” the characters “IYOB” and “COMMUNIST MAN”. Semiotic Analysis is used to analyze the costume of the characters and gives an explanation of how costume designers design costumes in films that effectively communicate the character in films.

The Reality of Betawi Culture in the Film "si Doel the Movie" (Semiotic Analysis of Roland Barthes)

This study aims to interpret and describe the reality of Betawi Sarong culture in the film "Si Doel the Movie" and to find out the meaning of denotation, connotation, and myth in this film. This research uses qualitative and descriptive methods and semiotic analysis of Roland Barthes. In this case, Roland Barthes' semiotic analysis begins with the denotation meaning, which is the real meaning, then the connotative meaning, which has a double meaning. The connotation meanings attached and believed by the public will eventually become myths. The results obtained from this research from scenes related to the reality of Betawi culture in society in everyday life produce several concepts, namely that there is a shift in stigma and stereotypes towards Betawi people who are trying to be overturned by Doel's character who shows a calmer attitude in acting and speaking, like the character of non-Betawi people. Stigma and stereotypes that make Betawi people seem to be marginalized, through the character of Doel's figures, are shifted to become educated Betawi people. Meanwhile, from the scenes related to the concept of representing the identity and existence of the Betawi sarong, the concept is that the role and function of the sarong, in this case, is ultimately determined by the owner or user related to emotional ties and other elements of the culture, where the sarong can change its function according to changes, which underlies its initial function.

Semiotic Analysis of Positive Interpersonal Communication Behavior in The Web Series Film "Setan Taubat"

A web series is a serialized program similar to television shows, but the difference is that it is distributed through electronic media. In 2020, a popular YouTube content creator in Indonesia, along with their team, launched a web series titled "Setan Taubat." The web series revolves around positive activities during the holy month of Ramadan and tells the story of a successful hijab entrepreneur who has a supernatural friend named Becir. Many new developments in the storyline pique the curiosity of the audience, and the series conveys positive messages and behaviors. Verbal messages are emphasized in this web series. This research aims to analyze the forms of positive interpersonal communication behavior in the web series "Setan Taubat" using Charles Sanders Pierce's semiotics theory, which categorizes signs based on symbols, objects, and interpretants known as the meaning triangle. The research approach utilized is qualitative and descriptive to construct the meaning of messages in the web series "Setan Taubat" and comprehend the phenomenon by describing it through words. Additionally, the study employs semiotic analysis methods. Primary data collection is conducted through observation of the web series, and secondary data is obtained from documentation and literature review. The research results indicate that the web series "Setan Taubat" contains forms of positive interpersonal communication behavior as identified through Charles Sanders Pierce's semiotic analysis. Positive communication behavior that supports interpersonal communication includes openness, positive behavior, supportive behavior, empathy, and equality. Examples of attitudes include care, wisdom, responsibility, and others. These behaviors can be observed through the data findings presented in the research.

Semiotic Functions of Indexicality

By exploring how indexical signals interact with other semiotic components, as well as how social context affects their interpretation, this study fills a research gap and examines the complex function that these signs play in influencing meaning-making within communication. The present study employed theme analysis to look at public speeches, social media posts, and ads that promoted environmental awareness and community involvement. Themes about social action and environmental responsibility evolved, along with the identification of indexical signals. A comparative examination showed that although basic themes were shared across societies, how particular indications were interpreted differed according to social and cultural situations. Indexical signals interact with other semiotic components to create meaning, as demonstrated by semiotic analysis. This study underscores the significance of indexicality in communicating complex concepts and the necessity of employing culturally sensitive communication techniques. These results might be useful in developing messages that effectively encourage global community involvement and environmental awareness.