Analysis on Roland Barthes Codes in The Wizard of Oz: A Semiotic Approach

Abstract

This research aims at finding out Roland Barthes code in the novel The Wizard of Oz. The writer analyses similarities and differences among the codes and finds out the meaning of the codes in the novel. This is a qualitative descriptive research whereas the data are presented in the form of written words or verbal expression. The writer divides the novel into lexias, and then applies the code into those lexias. The result shows that Roland Barthes codes found in the story are Proairetic (309 lexias); Hermeneutic (111 lexias); Semic (105 lexias); Symbolic (101 lexias) and Cultural (36 lexias). Proairetic and Hermeneutic both focus on action performed by the characters. Semic and Cultural both operate in the way character presented, meanwhile Symbolic works on binary polarities exist in the story. Proairetically, this novel tells us that there is no place like home; home sweet home. Hermeneutically, this story presents a coincidence which becomes providence. In Semic code analysis, the writer finds that this novel teaches self sufficiency. Meanwhile in Symbolic code analysis, this novel presents the idea of good versus evil. Cultural code contributes in describing the notion of the American dream.