Important Note on the Readings for This Week

M. Underwood, "Code";"Code and Ideology";"Introduction to Semiotics" - "Criticism of Semiotics" [HTML]

The reading material is taken from a very useful tutorial on semiotics prepared by Mick Underwood. Underwood created this site for communication and media studies students in England, so you'll notice occasional references to the course of study and subject matter. But this material on semiotics is relevant to a wide range of disciplines, including visual and cultural studies, regardless of geography. His texts are also clearly written and non-technical.

The titles listed above (in quotes) are the main sections in Underwood's database. You'll need to read each one of these sections for this week's discussion.

There is a handy index of titles on the left side of his web page which helps you locate most articles.

Problem

The first section titled "Code" cannot be accessed from his Index, so I have a work-around for you.

Solution

1. You should start by reading this document >>> "Code".
2. When you finish, follow the link at the bottom of the page. This takes you to Underwood's database.
3. Once the page loads, select "Ia" in the Index, and under "Ideology" select "Codes and Ideology".
4. When you get to the end of "Codes and Ideology", select "Introduction to Semiotics" at the bottom of the page.
5. Subsequent sections in the introduction will be found on this page. Be sure to read all sections from "Sign" to "Structuralism and Poststructuralism"
6. Finally, read "Criticism of Semiotics".

As usual, let me know if you have questions or need more information.