Roland Barthes

By Connor Flello

Codes

• Barthes suggested that there are one or more codes we use to identify texts.

• These texts may be “Open” (unraveled in a lot of different ways) or “Closed” (there is only one obvious thread to pull on).

Types of Codes

• Hermeneutic/enigma code• Proairetic/ action code• Semantic code• Symbolic code• Referential code

Meanings of codes

• Hermeneutic/enigma code:

This code refers to a mystery in a text. Clues are dropped but no clear answer is given. Enigma’s during a narrative usually wants them to know more, but unanswered enigmas often frustrate audiences.

Proairetic/ action code

• This code contains sequential elements of action in a text. For an example, a gunslinger would draw his gun on an adversary and we would wonder what the resolution of this action would be.

Semantic code

• This code refers to parts within the text that suggests or refers to additional meaning. Essentially it involves a suggested additional meaning by using connotation.

Symbolic Code

• This code is about symbolism in a text. It exercises contrasts to create greater meaning, drama and tension.

Referential code

• This code refers to anything that requires an external body of knowledge, such as scientific, historical or cultural knowledge.