The glowing briefcase in Quentin Tarantino's "Pulp Fiction" is one of the film's most intriguing elements and a classic example of a MacGuffin—a plot device that drives the story forward but whose specific nature is unimportant to the overall narrative. The contents of the briefcase are never revealed, which has led to much speculation and various theories among viewers and critics. Here are some of the theories and interpretations regarding the briefcase's contents: 1. **Marcellus Wallace's Soul**: One popular theory is that the briefcase contains the soul of the character Marcellus Wallace. This theory is often supported by the combination lock on the briefcase being set to 666 (commonly associated with the devil) and the band-aid on the back of Wallace's neck, which is where some cultures believe the soul is removed. 2. **A Symbol of Temptation and Human Desire**: The briefcase could symbolize human temptation, as its contents appear precious and desirable to those who look inside. It also serves to test the character of those who come into contact with it, reflecting the Biblical idea of a "test of character.” 3. **A Gimmick**: Some argue it's simply a plot gimmick used by Tarantino to create mystery and suspense within the film, providing a powerful object of desire without needing to define it. 4. **A Nod to Classic Film Noir**: The briefcase could be a homage to film noirs and hard-boiled detective stories that traditionally feature a mysterious object for which characters are searching. 5. **Gold, Diamonds, or Something Valuable**: It could be something prosaic yet valuable, like gold or diamonds, which emits a yellow glow when opened. But Tarantino decided to leave it to the viewer's imagination to make it more compelling. 6. **An Allegory for Hope or Salvation**: It's also interpreted as an allegory for hope or salvation. The characters who view the contents are awestruck, and it seems to promise something better or more significant than their current situations. In terms of symbolism within the film, the briefcase serves multiple purposes: - **A Plot Device**: It helps to connect the various storylines and characters in "Pulp Fiction," as it is the object sought after by several characters, thus helping to weave the film's complex narrative tapestry. - **Mystery and Viewer Engagement**: By not revealing the contents, Tarantino engages the audience's imagination, prompting an active participation in the story. Each viewer can project their personal desires onto the unknown contents, making it a personalized symbol. - **A Reflection of the Characters**: The reactions to the content of the briefcase reflect aspects of the characters viewing it, offering insight into their mindset and desires. It can serve as a moral or ethical test, or simply a reflection of their awe and greed. Ultimately, the briefcase is a central component of the film's enduring allure, granting "Pulp Fiction" a layer of mythic depth that fuels endless discussion and analysis. Tarantino himself has largely remained mum about the case's contents, preferring to leave it as an enduring mystery, which encourages the film's longevity as a topic of cultural conversation.