Critical Issues: Week 1 (Distinctions)

Question 1

Denotative vs Connotative Meaning

Answer 1

DENOTATIVE MEANING is the literal, face-value meaning of a sign.
(Ex. The denotative meaning of a picture of a rose is that it’s a flower).

CONNOTATIVE MEANING in semiotics is the social, cultural and historical meanings that are added to a sign’s literal meaning.
(Ex. Peace is the connotative meaning of the image of a dove).

Question 2

Looking vs Seeing

Answer 2

LOOKING

SEEING

Question 3

Mimesis vs Social Constructionism

Answer 3

MIMESIS is a concept that defines representation as a process of mirroring or imitating real life.

SOCIAL CONSTRUCTIONISM is a theory that suggests…

Question 4

Sign, Signifier, Signified

Answer 4

SIGN

SIGNIFIER

SIGNIFIED

Question 5

Studium vs Punctum

Answer 5

STUDIUM is the reality of what is in the photograph

PUNCTUM is the aspect of the photograph that grabs the viewers attention and “punches” them with emotion.