Media Language- Todorov, Barthes, Neale, Levi Strauss, Baudrillard

Media Language in Television

Tzvetan Todorov, a Bulgarian literary theorist, proposed a five-stage narrative which consists of equilibrium, disruption, recognition of disruption, attempt to repair disruption and restoration of a new equilibrium.
This theory is often applied in television as a framework for storytelling. A peaceful equilibrium initially exists, which is then disrupted by some force, leading to a series of events to resolve it and finally establishing a new equilibrium.

Roland Barthes developed theories relating to semiotics, the study of signs. He proposed that each sign consists of the signifier (the form) and the signified (the concept).
Barthes’ semiotic theory helps to understand how meaning is constructed and interpreted in television. Every image, sound, and sequence can carry its own meaning and connotations, shaping the viewers’ understanding of the narrative.

Steve Neale discussed the idea of genre repetitiveness and difference. He noted that while genres need to be recognisable (hence repetitive), they also need to keep the audience interested (thus requiring difference).
This proves relevant in television, where shows of a similar genre may follow similar tropes or patterns, but must also provide something unique to maintain viewers’ interest.

Claude Levi Strauss proposed the theory of binary opposition, suggesting that many narratives are structured around conflicts between opposing characteristics such as good and evil, male and female, life and death.
This is frequently seen in television narratives, where conflict between two opposing forces often forms the basis of the plot, driving the narrative forward.

Jean Baudrillard argued that society has become so reliant on models and maps that we have lost contact with the real world that preceded the map. He called this state a simulacrum.
He also suggested that reality has been replaced by hyperreality - the idea that media can create realities that are more real than real life, blurring the distinction between reality and illusion.
These concepts explore the impact television can have on viewers’ perceptions of reality, questioning whether the media we consume shapes our understanding of the world around us.

Understanding these media theories can help greatly in examining and analysing television content and its effects on viewers.