Description

What is semiotics? What does it mean? How does it work? Over the past few decades, semiotics has increasingly gained popularity and yet, to many, the very term remains an enigma. This Dictionary of Semiotics is a much-needed reference book for the terms and models used in the semiotic approach. Based on the theory evolved by the Paris School of semiotics founded by A.J. Greimas, the work is exceptional in that it combines a wordbook with detailed explanation of theory and a host of practical illustrations. An initial definition of the concept, coupled with a brief historical overview of the elaboration of European semiotic theory, is followed by a specialized lexicon of its metalanguage. Expressed in lucid terms, the definitions are clarified further by readily understood examples. In the final section of the volume, a semiotic analysis of a well-known fairy-tale provides a practical example of the method, both illustrating how semiotic models can be helpful in probinf effects of meaning on the textual surface and showing how to integrate them into wider contexts. In contrast to the highly technical semiotic dictionary produced in France, which addresses a specialized readership only, this work is accessible to students of all levels. Aiming at a wide range of readers, it can be used in course work as well as for reference. Bronwen Martin and Felizitas Ringham are both Associate Research Fellows at Birbeck College, University of London.