Research on the Contemporary Design Translation and Consumer Culture of 19th-Century French Literary Material Symbols

Abstract

19th-century French literature holds a significant position in the history of world literature, with its works renowned not only for their profound intellectual content and exquisite artistic expression, but also for portraying the material and cultural characteristics of contemporary society through delicate depiction. Meanwhile, fashion, as a non-subjective social phenomenon, experienced unprecedented development in 19th-century France, becoming an important product intertwining culture and economy. Research shows that the fashion system of this period not only reflected the aesthetic tastes of mainstream groups but also shaped the spirit of the era and social identity through symbolic expression. However, with the rise of contemporary consumer society, why material symbols in 19th-century French literature can be reinterpreted and translated into modern design language has become a question worth exploring. Behind this phenomenon of translation lie not only the mechanisms of signifier and signified conversion in semiotic theory but also the appropriation and reconstruction of historical culture by consumer society. Therefore, this thesis wants to study from this angle why the 19th century material symbols are suitable for current translation and what they mean in consumer culture.