(https://dxb402groupssjr.wordpress.com/2015/08/26/compositional-interpretation-image-analysis-wk2-2/)
I actually had a hard time figuring out what exactly Social Semiotics was. Everything I seemed to google brought up different results. I guess from what I gather it's all about how you interpret it. For me what I concluded is that Social Semiotics is seeing the world through signs and symbols. These signs can mean different things however based on one's own culture and history. It is all based on interpretation. The idea and term Social Semiotics was first introduced by linguist theorist Michael Halliday.
According to an article called, Visual Social Semiotics: Understanding How Still Images Make Meaning by Claire Harrison, the elements of an image and where they are located create great meaning. If the represented participant (RP) is located on the left it gives a sense of knowledge. While RPs on the right are considered an issue, problem or solution. RPs at the top have the sense of being ideal while the bottom is more factual or down to earth. The center is also important because it is what all the information around corresponds to.
Using the article by Claire Harrison here is what I concluded about the images below:
Washington looking off to the left gives him the sense of knowledge that he knows what he is doing. The American flag in the center shows why this image is important. It is the fight for Independence and freedom. The right is where they have come from and I believe represents what they are leaving behind to accomplish.
As with the Washington image, Napoleon is looking off and even pointing to the right. Again portraying his knowledge and determinism. He is also portrayed in the center because he embodies the French spirit and therefore France itself. He and his horse are also facing towards the top of the image showing that he is the idealistic leader.
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