Media Language

Media language

The system of signs, codes, and conventions through which meaning is created and communicated within media texts.

Audience Interaction

Advances in technology and social media have transformed how narratives are constructed, allowing for increased audience involvement.

Interactive Narratives

Video games exemplify this by granting players the power to influence the storyline through their decisions.

Personalized Viewing

Interactive television features, like the Red Button or online platforms, enable viewers to customize their viewing experience by selecting specific events, camera angles, and shots.

Individual Narrative

This level of audience control means each viewer can create a unique interpretation or narrative of a media event.

Narrative

how a media text tells its story to the audience.

Technical codes

editing, graphics, and camera angles that contribute to the narrative.

Audio codes

include all spoken content, such as news presenter and correspondent dialogue.

Visual codes

encompass set design and the formal attire of news presenters and journalists.

Traditional Narrative Theory

Chronological progression: Stories typically unfold in a linear order with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

Equilibrium

Todorov's Narrative Stages

__________: Initial state of normalcy.

Disruption

Todorov's Narrative Stages
________: An event upsets the balance.

Recognition

Todorov's Narrative Stages
________: Characters acknowledge the disruption.

Repair

Todorov's Narrative Stages
______: Attempts to restore order.

New Equilibrium

Todorov's Narrative Stages
__________: A new sense of balance is established.

Non-linear narratives

______________ deviate from a chronological structure. Often employ flashbacks and flashforwards to present events out of order.

Circular narratives

__________ begin at the story's end and gradually reveal its origins. Audience comprehension often occurs at the narrative's conclusion.

Flashback

Provides additional character information to advance the story. Manipulates time and space by revisiting events from different perspectives.

Point of view shot

Offers the audience a character's perspective. Effective in creating tension and suspense, especially in horror and thriller genres.

Apparently Impossible Positions

Uses unusual camera angles for dramatic effect. Examples include aerial shots captured by drones.

Privileged Spectator Positions

Gives the audience information withheld from characters, creating a sense of superiority and anticipation. Common in mysteries and detective dramas.

Voiceover

Narrates the story, provides context, and builds anticipation. Used in various formats, including reality TV, documentaries, and film trailers.

Enigma Codes

Creates suspense by withholding information, encouraging audience engagement and speculation. Often employed in mysteries and thrillers.

Action Codes

Hints at future events through character actions, establishing cause-and-effect relationships. Common in dramas and soap operas.

Vladimir Propp

believed that stories are primarily driven by the actions and decisions of characters.

The Villain

Obstructs the hero's quest.

The Donor

Prepares the hero for their journey by providing essential items or knowledge.

The Helper

Assists the hero in their endeavors, often acting as a sidekick.

The Princess

The desired object of the hero's quest, often requiring rescue.

The False Hero

Initially appears heroic but ultimately reveals a villainous nature.

The Dispatcher

Sends the hero on their quest.

The Hero

The central character whose journey is followed by the audience.

Newspapers

__________ often construct narratives around real-life events and individuals, fitting them into Proppian roles.

Politicians

______ facing public criticism or unpopular decisions are frequently portrayed as villains, aligning with Propp's villain archetype.

hero

Individuals performing heroic acts, such as rescues or charitable deeds, are often cast in the role of the ____.

Sports Broadcasting

Live broadcasts across time zones and use of replays/slow-motion offer multiple perspectives.

Drama and film

Techniques like flashbacks, time travel, and different camera angles create depth and intrigue.

Multi-Stranded Narratives

Many shows feature multiple storylines interweaving.

Split-Screen Narratives

The screen is divided into sections, each showing a different narrative.