Claude Levi Strauss

He suggested that the production of meaning depended in the concept of binary oppositions (Evil vs. Good). This involves looking at the conflict between two qualities and understanding how the text produces meaning by the setting up of these oppositions.

Binary oppositions of Western:

Settles vs. Native Americans

Christian vs. Pagan

Domestic vs. Savage

Weak vs. Strong

Good vs. Evil

 

Binary oppositions of ‘Lord of the Rings’:

Peace vs. War

Good vs. Evil

Hope vs. Fear

Compassion vs. Indifference

Bravery vs. Cowardice

Nature vs. Machinery