Roland Barthes had a theory that narrative can be broken down into 5 different codes.
The Hermeneutic Code (Enigma code) - Gives the audience a mystery or puzzle that they have to solve. The full truth is avoided and usually revealed later on. Examples of narratives that have enigma codes are The Scooby Doo Show, CSI or soap operas such as Eastenders - 'Who killed Archie Mitchell?'
The Proairetic Code (Action code) - Creates tension within the text and often prepares the audience for something which is about to happen.
E.g A close up shot of a letterbox represents that there is mail, possibly important mail.
The Semantic Code - The hidden meaning or connotations that are present within a text. The text has a pragmatics and semantics meaning.
E.g Children's TV Program 'Brum' appears to be a helpful car that helps people but pragmatically it is teaching children that being helpful is the right thing. The bright colours also give connotations of happiness and fun.
The Symbolic Code - Similar to the semantic code; when two texts that have opposite connotations or meanings come together and conflict ideas.
E.g The film 'Crash' has many different stereotypes that come together and judge each other.
The Cultural code - Refers to external knowledge in the text.
For example - Science, religion, historical and cultural knowledge.
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