Description: This book offers readers a lively, clear and practical introduction to two of the most central concepts in the study of media, culture and communication: media language and representation. Beginning with the basic components of image analysis, including framing, mise-en-scene, anchorage and genre, this book goes on to examine the contribution of semiotics to our understanding of the messages media texts convey. It then considers debates around authorial intent, "preferred" readings, ideology and discourse. The book subsequently explores the web of codes and interpretation that constructs representation and looks at important issues to do with stereotyping, propaganda, realism and the documentary. Packed with graphic and memorable examples and case studies taken from a range of contemporary and classic media texts, and carefully interspersed with suggestions for further activity or study, the book offers a lucid review of key theories that pays due attention to their practical application.

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