Barthes' Five Narrative Codes

Introduction

• Roland Barthes introduced the concept of five narrative codes in his book S/Z (1970).
• These codes group signifiers to create a story.
• Hermeneutic and Proairetic codes: Provide the internal chronology of a narrative.
• Semantic, Symbolic, and Cultural codes: Operate on a connotative level, adding depth to the story.
• Barthes likened narrative sequence to a melody composed of notes.
• Examples include Barthes’ analysis of Sarrasine and a modern take with Frozen 2.

Hermeneutic Codes

• Used when writers withhold information to create mystery or enigma.
• Includes snares and partial answers to keep the audience guessing.
• Common in mystery and horror genres (e.g., "Scream" and "Get Out").
• Keeps the audience engaged until the resolution of the narrative.

Proairetic Codes

• These are plot-related actions caused by previous events that lead to further actions.
• Create tension by making audiences wonder about the resolution (e.g., car chases, battles).
• Example: fight sequence in "Captain America: Civil War" between Captain America and Iron Man.

Semantic Codes

• These codes carry meanings or connotations beyond their basic definitions.
• Examples: James Bond's tuxedos connote sophistication, Wayne Manor connotes wealth.
• Semantic codes continue to function in adaptations (e.g., films).

Symbolic Codes

• Defined as thematic or structural devices involving contrasting signs.
• Example: Lightsaber colors in "Star Wars" (Jedi vs. Sith).
• Can include recurrent signs with shifting meanings (e.g., "Star Wars" sunset scenes).
• Example of the symbolic code in "2001: A Space Odyssey" comparing evolution to technological progress.

Cultural Codes

• Refer to external concepts and ideas that audiences must recognize to fully decode a text.
• Include historical, social, psychological, or literary references.
• Examples: "The Big Bang Theory" references to "Star Trek" and "Star Wars," "The Simpsons" homage to "2001: A Space Odyssey."

Application Examples

Sarrasine (Honoré de Balzac)

• Title and opening sentence illustrate all five codes.
• Hermeneutic Code: Unexplained title until later.
• Proairetic Code: Action description like "I was deep in."
• Semantic Code: "Tumultuous party" connotes wealth.
• Cultural Code: Universality of parties as social gatherings.
• Symbolic Code: Contrast between individual daydreams and group enjoyment.

Frozen 2

• Hermeneutic Codes: Elsa's mysterious voice leading to revelations.
• Proairetic Codes: Plot movements driven by actions (e.g., quest to correct wrongs).
• Semantic Code: Olaf’s name as comic relief.
• Cultural Codes: References like "Bohemian Rhapsody" homage.
• Symbolic Code: Contrast between time's progression and unchanging relationships.

Lexias

• Barthes divided texts into units called lexias, which can be labeled with the five codes.
• Useful for analyzing media texts using Barthes’ approach.