Media Theory Dictionary Flashcards

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to media theories, including semiotics, narrative structure, ideology, and fandom.

Semiotics

The study of signs and symbols and their use or interpretation.

Sign

The complete unit of meaning, consisting of the signifier and the signified.

Signifier

The visual or auditory element of a sign that communicates meaning.

Signified

The mental concept or meaning that is evoked by the signifier.

Icon

A sign that resembles what it signifies, such as an image or symbol.

Index

A sign that has a direct connection to what it signifies, like smoke indicating fire.

Symbol

A sign where the relationship between signifier and signified is arbitrary and culturally learned.

Denotation

The literal or primary meaning of a sign.

Connotation

The associations and meanings that arise beyond the literal definition of a sign.

Myth

Culturally constructed narratives that are perceived as natural and serve to reinforce ideological norms.

Ideology

A system of ideas and ideals that forms the basis of economic or political theory and policy.

Narrative Structure

The organized way in which a story is constructed, typically involving a beginning, middle, and end.

Equilibrium

The initial state of stability in a narrative before any disruption occurs.

Disruption

An event that disturbs the equilibrium, leading to conflict or change in the story.

Causality

The principle of cause and effect within a narrative's plot.

Masterplot

A common or archetypal story structure that can be identified across various narratives.

Sub-genre

A subdivision within a genre that shares specific characteristics.

Hybridity

The blending of different genres or styles in media.

Binary Oppositions

Pairs of contrasting concepts or terms that shape narrative structure and meaning.

Intertextuality

The relationship between different texts and how they reference each other within cultural productions.

Hegemony

The dominance of one group or class over others, particularly manifested through culture.

Audience Positioning

The strategies used within media texts to shape the audience's understanding and responses.

Cultural Imperialism

The process by which a dominant culture imposes its values on a less dominant culture.

Fandom

A community of enthusiasts who actively engage with, create, and share media content.

Participatory Culture

A culture where consumers are also active participants in the creation and sharing of media.

Reception Theory

A theoretical framework focusing on how audiences interpret media texts and construct meaning.