Exploring the Visual Narrative Characteristics of Chinese Classical Poetry Picture Books in Multimodal Discourse Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This scholarly investigation undertook a comparative analysis and discussion on the Visual Narrative Characteristics discernible in Chinese classical poetry picture books and storytelling picture books. Method: Purpose of the study is achieved by employing qualitative coding methodologies. The examination focused on the three dimensions of Visual Narrative Characteristics, namely Interpersonal Meaning, Ideational Meaning, and Textual Meaning, thereby contributing to the extant body of multimodal discourse analysis in the realm of children's picture books. The study adopted Visual Narrative theory as theoretical framework, employing qualitative analyses of individual images, sequential images, and the interplay between images and text on a page-by-page basis. Findings: The comparative analyses brought to light certain observations. Notably, Chinese classical poetry picture books were found to necessitate a heightened sense of pictorial immersion in the construction of Interpersonal Meaning. Furthermore, the construction of Ideational Meaning necessitated the establishment of a cohesive continuum of images and narrative logic. The examination of Textual Meaning construction revealed a deficiency in image-text interaction, prompting the identification of a need for increased variety and flexibility in the visual subjects. It is imperative, however, to underscore the necessity of contextualizing Visual Narrative analysis within the disparities inherent in Chinese and Western cultural contexts, particularly in light of the distinctive features of Chinese traditional culture. Implications for Research and Practice: The study's findings not only provide insights into the cultural distinctions between Chinese and Western contexts but also advocate for a nuanced exploration of the Visual Narrative Characteristics framework to enhance its applicability across diverse cultural milieus.