The book directly inspired the "country house mystery" episodes of shows like Jonathan Creek and Monk . It is also cited as a precursor to the "shaggy dog story" in comics.
In French, a magpie is une pie . The slang for a thief is un piqueur (related to piquer , to steal). But more cleverly: the magpie is a natural thief, acting on instinct. By making the culprit a bird, Hergé says: There is no evil here. Only chaos and stupidity. Part 6: Reception & Legacy Initial Reception: Critics were baffled. “Where is the adventure?” many asked. Children felt cheated. Adults slowly began to realize it was a masterpiece of anti-climax. les bijoux de la castafiore
It is the most adult Tintin book. And for that reason, it is unforgettable. The book directly inspired the "country house mystery"