Post Structuralism: What is meaning?

Unlike structuralism, post structuralism does not require structure. In fact, post structuralism requires very little, as their only concern is understanding that absolutely nothing has any one set meaning.

Quite the opposite of the structuralism theory.

When using post structuralism to deconstruct a piece of literature, it is important to keep in mind that there is no single conclusion. Yet sound conclusions must be found to argue the meaning of literature. Even when this conclusion is decided upon and argued, however, there will always be someone able to argue the opposite. This shows how, with the post structuralism theory, meaning will always be unclear.



This picture represents post structuralism in simple terms. While using the structuralism theory, one can see the picture of the pipe as a signifier for an actual pipe itself (the signified). Yet the words underneath, which translate to 'This is not a pipe' show how this picture would be looked at through a post structuralist view. While one person may argue that it is, in fact, a pipe, it is also possible for someone else to argue that it is not.

Post structuralism also goes against theories such as New Criticism, who insist that the single meaning of a text can be found directly within the literature. Yet this is exactly what post structuralism argues; there is no one meaning.

There is no capitol 'T' truth in regards to anything.

Citations:
"Ceci N'est Pas Une Valentine." Flickr. N.p., 31 Jan. 2007. Web. <https://www.flickr.com/photos/dan_dan/375693313>.