Quiz 2

Conduct a Narrative Analysis of the provided images. Remember, the theory says that all human
communication is narrative and rhetorical, and thus persuasive in nature. You will be analyzing how
these images are rhetorical and how that affects the viewer’s understanding.  To review, rhetoric
concerns the force or power delivered by the visual--the ways in which it affects the beliefs,
attitudes, values, perceptual orientations, and behaviors of its consumers. You should refer to
your Vocabulary sheet and what you’ve learned about metaphor and semiotics to help you answer some
of these questions.

Examine the images, following these steps:

1.    To begin, group the images into their different narratives (as in the PPT on Obamacare
cartoons: Obama as liar, Obama as fool, etc.).

2.    Identify the characters:

Which received more emphasis?

Are they behaving characteristically?

3.    Identify the plot (action themes).

4.    Identify the settings:

Is the background appropriate to the story?

How do setting elements suggest meaning?

5.    Identify any archetypal character myths.

6.    How does temporal/spatial form impact the content?

7.    How is figurative imagery used (be specific) and what meaning does it contribute?