Semiotics

Objectives of the course

Broadening the epistemological frame of language sciences. Giving the students the opportunity to learn about the methods and epistemology of semiotics and using this method in actual research. Learning about different ways linguistic knowledge can be used.

Prerequisites

In order to successfully participate in in-class discussions and to follow the lectures, the student should take the introductory linguistic courses. This course is related to other courses in the Communications curriculum.

Assessment methods

Attending lectures, a term paper, oral examination, active participation in in-class discussions.

Course contents

This course is partially an introduction into Semiotics. Its main parts consist of studying and analyzing the definition of the concept of sign, in particular in its relation to language and languages. Discussing various types of signs from icons to symbols, etc., relation between signs and texts, metaphors, poetics, mythology, etc.

Material discussed in lectures also forms the main part of recitations, where more time and care is devoted to the main issues. Emphasis is given to practical knowledge and actual analysis of language data.

Recommended reading

• Grgič, M. (v pripravi) Logos, simbol in mit. Vprašanja semiotike in filozofije jezika. Maribor: Študentska založba Litera (Nova znamenja).
• Trabant, J. ― Eschbach, A. (1983) History of semiotics. Amsterdam ― Philadelphia: John Benjamins Publishing Company; ali:
• Calabrese, O. (2001) Breve storia della semiotica. Dai Presocratici a Hegel. Milano: Feltrinelli.
• Barthes, R. (1964) Eléments de sémiologie. Paris: Editions du Seuil.
• Cassirer, E. (1923) Philosophie der symbolischen Formen. Oxford.
• Eco, U. (1984) Semiotica e filosofia del linguaggio. Torino: Einaudi.
• Fabbri, P. (2001) La svolta semiotica. Roma ― Bari: Laterza
• Gambarara, D. (1996) Pensiero e linguaggio. Roma: La nuova Italia scientifica.
• Greimas, A. J. (1980) Du sens. Paris: Seuil