Résumé:
This dissertation investigates the potential presence and significance of
Masonic symbolism within Katy Perry's "Dark Horse" music video
through the lens of semiotics. Adopting a qualitative approach based on
Roland Barthes’ semiotics, the study identifies and analyzes potential
Masonic symbols embedded in the visual elements of the video. The study
reveals the employment of symbols such as the All-Seeing Eye and
geometric patterns, suggesting implicit meanings in relation to power,
knowledge, and esoteric narratives. While elaborating on the research
process, the study highlights the complexity involved in analyzing
dynamic visual media and emphasizes the importance of a systematic,
(theory driven) approach. This research is a ground and it is
recommended that more research be carried out on a broader range of
visual texts and audience reception. It contributes to the fields of semiotics
and linguistics by applying semiotic theory to a less explored area of
popular culture and demonstrates the importance of critical media literacy,
particularly in the Algerian media.
