Masonic Symbolism in Katy Perry’s Dark Horse Video Clip: A Semiotic Analysis.

Abstract

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.