Les jeux et les enjeux de la mise en abyme

Abstract

In this paper we intend to analyse the functioning of “mise en abyme” or heraldic construction in verbal and non-verbal system of signs, particularly in literary texts and in painting. The “mise en abyme” is discussed as one of the forms of intertextuality. According to the classification of Lucien Dallenbach, literary texts are characterised by the simple type of repetition. It is used to develop a sense perspective of the text and gives us the possibility of its interpreting in manifold ways. The non-verbal system of signs is characterized by the highest quality of repetition. The spectator uses it to observe him/her/self as if he/she were a different person. Thus, we shall present the united picture of “mise en abyme” in different systems of signs in an attempt at systematisation of this phenomenon.