Semiotic Theory and Practice in Italy



This course will present a critical study of the interpretative acts underlying the understanding of signs. It will trace the development of semiotics from a historical/social perspective though the works of various theoreticians. Particular attention will be paid to the function of verbal and non-verbal signs in the literary, linguistic fields as well as communication through theater, cinema art and the media. The course will be both theoretical and practical as together with tests and essays students will be asked to work on applied semiotic projects.



Required Texts:

Bonfantini Massimo, Breve corso di semiotica. Laterza 2005. (Settima edizione)

Eco, Umberto, Interpretazione e sovrainterpretazione. Bompiani, 2002.

Marcel Danesi, Brands. Il mondo delle marche. Carocci, 2009.