A Discursive-Semiotic Approach To Cultural Aspects In Persuasive Advertisements

A dissertation submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Magister Artium in Applied Linguistics and Literary Theory (with specialisation in translation)

ILZE BEZUIDENHOUT


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Introduction
Background and Problem
Objective
Scientific Instrument
Application
Practical application
Scientific application
Focus
Chapter Outline

CHAPTER 1
A Discursive-Semiotic Approach to Cultural Aspects in Persuasive Advertisements
Introduction
Advertisements as Discourse
The Act of Communication
Translating the Message
The Study of Signs
The Sign
Metaphors and Metonymy
Codes and Systems into which Signs are Organised
Levels of Meaning: Connotation and Denotation
Intertextuality
Translating the Signs - Translating the Culture
Questions: To Have and to Hold
Conclusion

CHAPTER 2
The Role of Culture in Persuasive Advertisements
Introduction
Definitions of Culture
What Constitutes Cultural Identity?
Cultural Signs in South Africa
Ideology and Signs in Advertisements
National Symbols and Ideology
The Influence of One Culture on Another
Blurring Cultural Parameters
Influence of the American Dream on Cultural Identities
Towards a Translation Theory of Culture
Cultural Gaps
Values and Moral Issues
Conclusion

CHAPTER 3
Finding a Translation Theory
Introduction
Translating Persuasive Advertisements
Towards Translation Equivalence
Translating Culture
Specific Cultural Items
Role of Semiotics in Translation Theory
Conclusion

CHAPTER 4
The Instrument in Action
Introduction
International, Multinational Advertisements
Absolut
Coca-Cola
Belgian Advertising Industry
Analysis and Discussion of Belgian Advertisements
Television Advertisements
Analysis and Discussion of South African Advertisements
Conclusion

CHAPTER 5
Translating the Culture, Translating the Discourse
Introduction
Shared South African Symbols
Television Advertisements
Conclusion

CHAPTER 6
Conclusion

Bibliography

Media Gallery

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

Anton and my parents for support beyond words. My supervisor, prof. Ronel Johl, for patience and guidance.

In South Africa: Wilna Liebenberg, Herman Engelbrecht, Johan Roux, Magriet Krüger, Zirk van den Berg, Wilna de Bruin, Ian Smith.

In Belgium: prof. José Lambert, prof. Marcel Jansens, Sophie Frére, Ann Peetermans, Bart Broodcoorens, Mia Hamels.

The Human Sciences Research Council for a bursary.


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