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10. Semiotic Landscapes

  • Jennifer Smith
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Abstract

This chapter outlines the characteristics of semiotic landscaping and discusses the role of multimodality in discursive place-making. The notion of ‘indexicality’ is explored and how it relates to the study of language and signs in urban places. After an overview of studies that look at the linguistic sign and what constitutes as an urban place, the most common methods, data types and research questions are considered and the key terms and important concepts in semiotic landscape research are introduced including the crucial distinction between ‘space’ and ‘place’. There is emphasis on identity as a recurring theme in semiotic landscape research in urban settings.

Abstract

This chapter outlines the characteristics of semiotic landscaping and discusses the role of multimodality in discursive place-making. The notion of ‘indexicality’ is explored and how it relates to the study of language and signs in urban places. After an overview of studies that look at the linguistic sign and what constitutes as an urban place, the most common methods, data types and research questions are considered and the key terms and important concepts in semiotic landscape research are introduced including the crucial distinction between ‘space’ and ‘place’. There is emphasis on identity as a recurring theme in semiotic landscape research in urban settings.

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