The photography as historical evidence - pictures of the Mitsi family

Abstract

This study is aimed at determining whether the family photo can be used as evidence for production of historical knowledge. By using A. J. Greimas’s semiotic theory, plus that of critical reading of works of art as proposed by R.W. Ott and the one of the fiches of photography reading by Mauad, a reading tool was produced in order to facilitate the readings of representations present in the photography. Supported by these instruments, three readings were performed in Mitsi family’s photographies in the decades of 30, 40 and 50, respectively. It was possible to raise records of various historical aspects. It was proved that semiotics can be an auxiliary discipline in the historiography production, regarding the utilization of photography as historical evidence.