A SEMIOTIC ANALYSIS ON THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THE SIGNS AND THE MEANINGS OF WAYANG PUNAKAWAN FIGURES

Abstract

A sign does not stand for itself, a sign stands for another thing instead. This means that there is something else that can be revealed by observing a sign. Peirce has proposed the concept of triangle of signification. It concerns with the triadic relationship between the sign, its object, and the bridge of them called interpretant. The role of the interpretant is so essential and depends on the comprehension of the interpreter toward the context covering the sign. Wayang kulit, as a visual art product, has some elements considered as sign that contains semiotic potential. The signs have certain ideas behind. This thesis is conducted to reveal the relationship between the sign and the meaning of wayang Punakawan Figures by applying Peirce’s triangle of signification. First, the writer collects some qualitative data needed like the meaning of the body parts and the contexts considered relevant to the sign. Secondly, the writer descriptively analyzes the data found. It is purposed to get a construction of context that may contribute to the reader’s interpretant. After that, the proper link between the sign, interpretant, and the meaning of each Punakawan figure can be figured out. This results clear and objective description of signification process of each sign noticed in wayang Punakawan figures. In addition, the classification of the sign types can be also recognized. The relationship between the sign and its object in fact cannot be linked without the existence of the interpretant, the idea that comes out after observing a sign. The interpretant itself is greatly affected by t he interpreter’s comprehension toward the context of the sign.