U-P analysis: A neo-Peircean analytic tool for visual subjects

Abstract

This essay presents a scheme for analyzing visual subjects. Abridging Peirce’s first trichotomy, arriving at a division of subjects as either Unitary (visents) or Plural entities (systems), the proposed scheme provides the basis of a protocol for analysis. In the process of studying the implications of plural entities, distinctions between elements, motifs, style and genre become clear. The resulting framework provides a lithe and simple analytical method that trades comprehensive logical breadth for ease of use in practice. Moreover, because it can be inserted back into a fuller Peircean system, the breadth of the comprehensive Peircean semeiotic can be regained if required.