Transformation of MediaReality in the Conditions of War in Ukraine

L. Cherniavska

Abstract


The purpose of the study - characterization of the meme as one of the visual images of the media reality, which takes part in its formation in the conditions of war.

Research methodology. Methods of systematization, analysis and synthesis, interpretation were used to study modern trends in the development of media reality during the war in the country on the example of one of its visual images. The review of scholars’ researches of memes’ creation technologies and their role in creation of media space was made. Memes created during the first two months of the Russian war against Ukraine in the English-language discourse and in the Ukrainian media space are analyzed.

Results. The analysis of scientific literature made it possible to identify three main types of memes according to the structure and participation of media components in the formation of a meme, the principles of the humorous in memes are considered, and the means of the comic in memes are outlined. Memes have become mediaformations that have made it possible to identify reactions to the events of Russian aggression in Ukraine and trace their main themes in the English-language discourse and the Ukrainian media space.

In the early days of the war, ordinary American and European users, in order to demonstrate their support for Ukraine, began to create memes and distribute reviews of memes about Russian aggression against Ukraine. English-speaking users noted the need to resist Russian propaganda, which put forward its information front not only against Ukraine, but also the entire civilized world. The task of the meme was to reproduce the media reality not disfigured by Russian messages.

The task of Ukrainian memes was to support Ukrainians, glorify warriors and ordinary Ukrainians who showed courage and determination in confronting Russian aggression.

Novelty. Memocreation is a powerful tool for creating mediareality and in modern conditions, entertainment content has strengthened its function of responding to current events. The English-language discourse presents broad support for Ukraine in the situation of Russia's collective aggression through memorability. Ukrainian-language media discourse actively uses humor tools to combat Russian information aggression.

Practical significance. The results of the research can be used in the process of studying courses on communication, formation of media reality in the specialties «Journalism», «Advertising and Public Relations», «Information Business», as well as media practitioners in matters of interaction with the audience.

Key words: mediareality, visual image, meme, media content, media space, meme creation, entertainment content, theory of generations.


References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.32840/cpu2219-8741/2022.2(50).9

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