This clearly written, user-friendly, hands-on guide to media criticism empowers you to make your own analyses of the media rather than just accepting the interpretations of others. The book first examines the four techniques of media interpretation-semiotic theory, Marxist theory, psychoanalytic theory, and sociological theory-that the author considers critical for creative people to acknowledge if they are to understand how their creations translate to the real world. Application chapters than link popular culture to these four theories. Written in an accessible style, the book includes a comprehensive glossary, study guides, and the author's own illustrations. //ir