Symbol’s, Icons, and Index’s
#1 The first picture that I wanted to use was an xbox 360 controller. The picture itself is an icon because it is a picture of something in real life, but the controller in the picture is full of symbols. The grey circle in the middle has a green “X” in it. This X has come to be known as the XBox 360 symbol. The buttons on the controller all represent something as well. There is a yellow Y, a green A, a blue X and a red B. These don’t exactly mean anything without a game, but when playing a game, they all mean something special. These are something you must learn for each game, but each button represents an action or something in the game.
#2 The second picture that I used is a picture of a recycling bin. This little symbol is known internationally as the symbol meaning recycle. It can represent a spot to recycle or on a sign telling you to recycle. The arrows around in a kind of triangular circle representing a never ending cycle. I believe that this could also be considered an index because it is almost pointing to the recycling bin and letting you know to recycle in there.
#3 The third first I believe is an icon, it represents something in real life, which is “Uncle Sam,” who has come to be known as the symbol for our country. We have learned that Uncle Sam represents the United States as a symbol. Uncle Sam has been used in many wars, and his origin dates back to the War of 1812, and he is based on a real man.
February 3, 2010 at 4:32 pm
Good job here Brian. I wonder if there are any indices on the x-box as well and whether the x-box itself is a symbol for something? Also, over time, has “Uncle Sam” also come to symbolize anything else? Laurie
February 4, 2010 at 1:02 pm
With regard to the third image, when you say “Uncle Same represents the United States as a symbol”, you could discuss more in depth what the symbol signifies about the United States, say, in terms of nationalism, the idea of the individual forming part of the whole and the responsibility that this may invoke. For example, by analyzing the image itself: the pointing finger, the patriotic colors, the stern expression, the defiant posture, etc. What behavior or emotions are these elements meant to produce in the intended targets, i.e., the American citizen? Does it clash with the firm notion of individuality upheld by the ideals of the country?