a term created by Alfred Hitchcock for the plot device or element (an object, goal, event or piece of knowledge) that catches the viewer's attention and drives the logic or action of the plot and appears extremely important, but turns out to be less significant or often ignored after it has served its purpose (examples include the use of Rosebud in Citizen Kane and the priceless statue in The Maltese Falcon). (Griffiths, 2015), something small and concrete to focus the audience's attention and symbolize the hopes and aspirations of the characters. (Vogler, 2007, p. 239)

a term created by Alfred Hitchcock for the plot device or element (an object, goal, event or piece of knowledge) that catches the viewer's attention and drives the logic or action of the plot and appears extremely important, but turns out to be less significant or often ignored after it has served its purpose (examples include the use of Rosebud in Citizen Kane and the priceless statue in The Maltese Falcon). (Griffiths, 2015), something small and concrete to focus the audience's attention and symbolize the hopes and aspirations of the characters. (Vogler, 2007, p. 239)