Image as Symbol: Conflict Metaphor Construction in Pema Tseden’s Films

Abstract

Symbols are an important element of film, and the metaphorical function of symbols helps the works to express meaning. In the works of Chinese director Pema Tseden, the conflict between modern civilization and primitive civilization in Tibet is the object of his persistent expression. In the his different works, space symbols, image symbols and color symbols are constantly intertwined and transformed into Mysterious sight. This article aims to analyze how the director expresses the conflict between modern material civilization and traditional Tibetan civilization by analyzing the works of Pema Tseden on the basis of the space theory proposed by Michel Foucault.