A Semiotic Study of Roland Barthes’ Order of Signification in Gravity Falls Season 1 Animated Series by Alex Hirsch

Abstract

This study constitutes a semiotic analysis of the signs used in the first season of Alex Hirsch’s Gravity Falls animated series. This research aims to uncover the order of signification of the signs in the first season of the Gravity Falls animated series. The analysis of the numerous sorts of signs that occur, as well as the discovery of the denotation, connotation, and myth of the various types of signs that have been uncovered, are done using Roland Barthes’ semiotic theory approach. The method used in this research is a qualitative method that involves collecting selected data from 6 episodes from a total of 20 episodes in the first season of Gravity Falls and an in-depth analysis of how signs are constructed and used in a narrative context. The main findings of this study highlight the diverse use of signs in the first season of Gravity Falls, including the use of signs to reflect social values, history, and stereotypes, as well as critical commentary on certain issues.

Keywords: Semiotic, Order of Signification, Animated Series