Work to explain one or more of Saussure's ideas about the linguistic sign. You may answer any or all parts of any or all of these questions; they are designed to give you some flexibility in your answers. Part A asks for some basic information about the theory we're looking at; Part B asks for some expansion of that understanding; Part C asks for applications, comparisons, or other more extended uses of the theory.
In formulating your answer, first be sure you specify what question or questions you are answering. Remember that your answers will be evaluated for clarity and completeness. The most important thing to focus on in answering any of these questions is to explain the ideas in your own language. Using direct quotes from the text, or from the lecture notes, can supplement, but not substitute for, your own explanations. Come up with your own specific examples wherever possible.
A. What are the two parts of the sign? How do they differ? What are the main characteristics of the linguistic sign? How is linguistic value created? What is the difference between "value" and "signification"? What's the difference between "langue" and "parole," and how are they related to "value"?
B. Discuss Saussure's assertion that the linguistic sign is always arbitrary. Look at the counter-examples he offers, and disproves; can you think of other counter-examples that might be more persuasive?
C. Discuss Saussure's idea of structure. Why does he insist that the structure of language is always linear? Is he right? What, besides language, might be investigated from a structuralist perspective? What is gained, and/or lost, by examining the world in terms of structure?