The spelling of "golden apple" follows the English language's phonetic rules. "Golden" is spelled with a soft "g" sound as opposed to a hard "g", which can be identified by its IPA transcription as /ɡəʊldən/. Similarly, the individual phonemes of "apple" are /ˈæpəl/, where the stress is on the first syllable. The word "golden" is a common modifier used to describe the apple's color and is frequently used in fiction and mythology, such as the famous Greek myth involving the Golden Apple of Discord.
Golden apple refers to a term that has both a mythological and historical significance. In mythology, the term originates from ancient Greek mythology, specifically from the epic poem "The Iliad" by Homer. According to the myth, during the marriage ceremony of King Peleus and the sea-nymph Thetis, Eris, the goddess of discord, threw a golden apple inscribed with the words "for the fairest" among the goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite. This act instigated a fierce competition and led to the Trojan War.
Historically, the term "golden apple" also represents an object of great value or desirability. It symbolizes something that is highly coveted or considered a prize. This concept of the golden apple has permeated various cultures and literary works throughout history, representing temptation, beauty, or a test of morality.
The term has gained symbolic significance outside of its mythological and historical contexts, with references to the golden apple appearing in modern literature, art, and media. It often embodies an alluring object or a powerful source of temptation that can bring fortune or misfortune to those who pursue it. In this sense, the golden apple retains its association with beauty, allure, or the pursuit of excellence.
The word "golden apple" has its roots in ancient Greek mythology. In Greek mythology, there is a story known as "The Judgement of Paris". According to the myth, Eris, the goddess of discord, was not invited to the wedding of Peleus and Thetis. Out of jealousy, she threw a golden apple into the midst of the celebrations. The apple had the words "For the Fairest" written on it.
Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, the three most powerful goddesses on Mount Olympus, claimed the apple as each believed they were the fairest. Zeus, the king of gods, did not want to get involved. Instead, he sent Paris, a Trojan prince, to judge which goddess deserved the apple.
After being bribed by each of the goddesses, Paris ultimately chose Aphrodite as the fairest.