An icon is a pictorial representation (that can come from historical culture. An icon is also a word or graphic symbol that has direct meaning or a visual representation to the object it is representing. Bullwinkle the Moose, has become an icon of sorts. Children of the 1960’s and on from western cultures would likely easily recognize him as being of moose origins, as indicated by his antlers and instant connect to his name Bullwinkle the Moose.
An index is a device that serves to indicate value or quantity. The index is a visual sign that directly illustrates the message displayed. In this case the index sign serves as a cautionary warning for drivers to be wary of moose (and possible elk) in the area, as they can cause serious damage to the driver’s automobile.
A symbol is something that stands for or suggests something else by reason of relationship. It is also a visible sign that represents something that is invisible. Rudolph the red nosed reindeer is a symbol. He is not only for Christmas, which as a date is only visible upon a calendar, but is also a symbol of the traditional Christian, related holiday season. By association he has also become a related symbol to the person known as Santa Claus. Santa Claus has various forms across the world while Rudolph has only one, he is the red nosed reindeer.
Dave Dion examples:
Libby Hanaford examples:
