Visual Methodologies: An Introduction to the Interpretation of Visual Materials: An Introduction to Interpreting Visual Objects - Softcover

Rose, Gillian

Softcover

ISBN 10: 076196665X ISBN 13: 9780761966654

Publisher: Sage Publications Ltd, 2001

Synopsis

Visual Methodologies is a critical introduction to the study and interpretation of visual culture. Written especially for the undergraduate or researcher who wants to learn more about working with visual materials, this book outlines which methods of interpretation are available and explains how to use them. The introduction contextualises recent debates about visual culture (situating the visual in social and cultural context); while each subsequent chapter reviews a different method for interpreting visual images. The methods explained are: compositional interpretation, contents analysis, semiology, psychoanalysis, types of discourse analysis, and the study of audiences. Each method is assessed in relation to an appropriate case study and in relation to the wider issues defined in the introduction; the conclusion demonstrates how different methods can be used in conjunction with each other. A comprehensive and integrated primer in applied methods - including discussion boxes, media specific bibliographies and notes for further reading - Visual Methodologies will be an essential reference for the study of visual culture in the social sciences.

About this title

Product Description

This book is an introduction to reading visual culture. It explains which methods are available to the undergraduate student and shows exactly how to use them.

The book begins with a discussion of general themes and recent debates, on the meaning of culture and the function of the visual, that offers a critical inquiry into the relation of visual images to social identities and social relations. Gillian Rose then goes on to investigate in detail the different methods for interpreting visual images. The strengths and weaknesses of each method are discussed in relation to a detailed case study, as well as to the more general issues outlined in the introduction. These methods include:

- Compositional interpretation

- Content analysis

- Semiology

- Psychoanalysis

- Discourse analysis

- Audience analysis

An integrated primer on studying visual culture, illustrated throughout, and with key terms cross-referenced and defined, Visual Methodologies will be the first reference for any undergraduate in the social sciences beginning research.

Review

"At a time when the analysis of visual cultura in all its forms is expanding at an exponential rate, employing ever more complex theoretical and methodological tools, Gillian Rose has provided a welcome overview of the state of the field. Visual Methodologies succeeds both as an introductory text, certain to be widely adopted in the classroom, and as a sophisticated refresher course for those who have followed the rapid maturation of this remarkable interdisciplinary discourse." 

(Professor Martin Jay)

Edition details

• Publisher: Sage Publications Ltd
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 076196665X
• ISBN 13: 9780761966654
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 304