Barthes

Codes

Definition

Example

Enigma

Enigma is the mystery

within a text, clues
are given but no clear
answer is shown. If
questions are left
unanswered,
audiences become
frustrated. E.g. in the
movie Inception.

An example of enigma is the

barking. We can see that he
know/sees something and is
agitated by it, but we dont kn
what it is. This is a clue that i
later answered.

Action

This code means the film contains

sequential elements of action in
the text. This is often helped with
parallel editing. Proairetic
elements add suspense to the
text.

Semantic

This code suggests and refers to

the additional meanings. The
conative function is to add an
extra layer of meaning to its
literal meaning, this can be seen
in the props used.
This code refers to the symbolism
within a text. Contrasting,
creating a greater meaning,
tension, drama and character
development.

The parallel editing slowly spe

up, as does the music, which
signifies that something is ab
to happen. This is followed by
chase scene, the action, whic
quickly diffused and restarted
within seconds.
The additional meaning could
that the corn is actually the c
and they are/have always bee
trying to scare the humans aw
from it.

Symbolic

Referential

Anything in the text, which refers

to external knowledge. For
example in Sci-Fi, a heavy
knowledge of science is necessary
to make the film realistic and
sound professional. A use of
culture knowledge is also used in
historical films.

The symbolism within this tex

refers to the dark crow like fig
This is ironic as well as drama
and tension building because
homemade man figures are
meant to scare the crows, bu
crow man is scaring the little
This scene is based on a farm
Therefore to make more reali
contains signifiers and
stereotypes of a farm. We see
fields of corn, scarecrows, big
heavy machinery and male
farmers.