The Symbolism of Rosebud in "Citizen Kane"

What does Rosebud represent in the movie "Citizen Kane"?

A. The main character's lost innocence and happiness.
B. Wealth and power.
C. Betrayal and secrets.
D. The main character's future ambitions.

Answer:

A. The main character's lost innocence and happiness.

In the movie "Citizen Kane," Rosebud represents the main character's lost innocence and happiness. It is a symbol that runs throughout the film, reminding the audience of Charles Foster Kane's childhood and the simpler times in his life before he became a wealthy and powerful man.

Rosebud is the name of the sled that Kane had as a child, and its significance lies in its connection to his past. The sled serves as a poignant reminder of the innocence and joy Kane experienced in his youth, highlighting the stark contrast with the loneliness and emptiness he feels in his later years.

By choosing Rosebud as the last word Kane utters before his death, the film underscores the theme of lost innocence and the fleeting nature of happiness. It suggests that Kane's pursuit of wealth and power ultimately led to his spiritual emptiness and isolation, making Rosebud a powerful symbol of the price he paid for his ambitions.