Table of ContentsThe Riddle of RosebudRosebud as a Narrative DeviceThemes of Power and LossConclusionCitizen Kane, directed by Orson Welles in 1941, is hailed as a cinematic masterpiece and a landmark in the history of cinema. The film tells the story of Charles Foster Kane, a wealthy and powerful media magnate, whose life is investigated after his death. One of the film's enduring mysteries is the meaning of Kane's last word, "Rosebud." In this essay, I will explore the importance of Rosebud in the context of Kane's character, the film's narrative structure, and its broader themes of power, wealth, and the human condition. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay The Riddle of Rosebud From the opening scenes of Citizen Kane, Rosebud is established as a central mystery that drives the narrative forward. As journalists interview Kane's friends, family and associates in an attempt to unravel the mystery of his life, the audience discovers the enigmatic figure of Kane himself. Throughout the film, Rosebud is cited as a key to understanding Kane's character and motivations. One interpretation of Rosebud is that it represents Kane's lost innocence and childhood. As we learn more about Kane's upbringing, we see how he was taken from his family at a young age and raised by a banker, who prepared him for a life of wealth and power. In this reading, Rosebud symbolizes Kane's longing for a simpler time, before he was consumed by his ambition and desire for control. Rosebud as a Narrative Device Beyond its symbolic meaning, Rosebud functions as a narrative device that moves the story forward and provides a sense of closure. The film is structured as a series of flashbacks and interviews, as we piece together Kane's life from the perspective of those who knew him best. Rosebud serves as a thread that ties these disparate elements together, leading to the revelation of its true meaning in the film's final moments. Welles uses Rosebud as a way to explore the nature of memory and storytelling. As journalists search for the meaning of Kane's last word, they uncover conflicting accounts of his life and legacy. This ambiguity reflects the complexity of the human experience and the way we construct narratives to make sense of our lives. Themes of Power and Loss At its core, Citizen Kane is a meditation on the corrupting influence of power and the emptiness of wealth. Kane's relentless pursuit of success leads to his isolation and eventual downfall, as he sacrifices his personal relationships and integrity in favor of control and influence. Rosebud reminds us of the cost of this pursuit, as Kane's final moments reveal the emptiness of his accomplishments. Throughout the film, we see how Kane's desire for power ultimately leaves him with nothing but his memories and the enigmatic symbol of Rosebud. In this sense, Rosebud represents the ultimate irony of Kane's life: a man who had everything, but lost the one thing that truly mattered. Keep in mind: this is just a sample. Get a personalized article from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Paper EssayConclusionIn conclusion, Rosebud is a multi-faceted symbol in Citizen Kane that serves as a key to understanding the complexities of Charles Foster Kane's character and the themes of the film. Through his exploration of power, loss, and the nature of storytelling, Welles creates a timeless masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences and spark discussion..