Define Roland Barthes' concept of "myth" as discussed in "Myth Today." How does he distinguish between the first-order and second-order meanings in myths?

Roland Barthes, in his work "Myth Today," defines "myth" as a type of speech, a system of communication, that conveys a particular message or meaning. It's not just a traditional story about gods or heroes, but rather a cultural concept that reinforces the beliefs and values of a society.

Barthes distinguishes between two levels of meaning in myths: the first-order semiotic system (denotation) and the second-order semiotic system (connotation).

1. First-order semiotic system (Denotation): This is the literal, primary meaning of a sign. For example, a picture of a rose would denote a specific type of flower. This is the basic, factual level of meaning.

2. Second-order semiotic system (Connotation): This is the broader, cultural meaning that is associated with the sign. It's the secondary meaning that is derived from the primary meaning. For example, the rose might connote love, passion, or romance. This is the level at which myths operate.

In the process of myth creation, the first-order meaning of a sign is taken and given a second, mythic meaning. The original meaning doesn't disappear, but it's overshadowed by the mythic meaning. This is what Barthes refers to as "myth as a second-order semiological system." The myth transforms the original, literal meaning into a symbolic, cultural one.