Language is really important in both structuralism and post-structuralism in cultural studies. It’s how we understand and create meaning in the world around us.

Structuralism:

• This idea says that language is like a system made up of signs.
• Meaning comes from the way these signs relate to each other and differ from one another.
• Imagine language as a structure that helps us make sense of culture. For example, the word “freedom” can mean different things in different cultures. But in structuralism, it focuses on how “freedom” connects with other ideas.

Post-Structuralism:

• This view questions the idea that words have fixed meanings.
• Here, language is more flexible, and meanings can change depending on the context.
• A thinker named Derrida talked about “différance.” This concept shows how meaning can change through many interpretations. So, when we look at something, like a book or a cultural artwork, we pay attention not just to the words but also to what isn’t said or suggested beneath the surface.

In short, structuralism sees language as a steady structure that helps us understand culture. On the other hand, post-structuralism shows that meanings can be unstable and vary within that structure. Thinking about both views helps deepen our understanding of culture and its many layers.