Anthropology 318 - Exploring Cultural Semantics

Where does meaning come from, and how does it work? Do different forms of expression (verbal, visual, auditory, or tactile) involve different ways of referring, of claiming what a message is about? Where do I locate the differences, how can I describe them? This course offers an introduction to key concepts in the study of meaning with a particular emphasis on narrative theory. We will take a closer look at the similarities and differences in the construction of 'the story,' in literature, history, myth, and other types of claims from very different historical (Ancient, Medieval, or Modern) and cultural (European, Aboriginal-Australian, and Native-American) settings.

This course is open to Juniors and Seniors. Prereq: 12 credits in Anthropology