Introduction to Semiotics and Structuralism - Lecture 8

Explore the foundations of semiotics through Ferdinand de Saussure's work in this 52-minute lecture from Yale University's Introduction to Theory of Literature course. Delve into key semiotic concepts such as langue and parole, signifier and signified, and synchrony and diachrony. Examine the relationship between semiotics and other literary theories like hermeneutics, New Criticism, and Russian formalism. Apply semiotic theory to real-world examples, including an in-depth analysis of a red light in various contexts. Gain insights into positive and negative knowledge, as well as arbitrary and differential aspects of language. Access complete course materials on the Open Yale Courses website to further enhance your understanding of literary theory and semiotics.

- Chapter 1. What is Semiology?
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- Chapter 2. "Langue" and "Parole," "Signified" and "Signifier"
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- Chapter 3. Positive and Negative Knowledge: Arbitrary and Differential
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- Chapter 4. Example: the Red Stoplight
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- Chapter 5. Synchrony and Diachrony
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