The term "golden apple" can refer to a few different things:
1. The Golden Apples of the Hesperides
- In Greek mythology, the Golden Apples of the Hesperides were a sacred treasure guarded by the Hesperides, daughters of Atlas.
- These apples were said to grant immortality and were a symbol of beauty and prosperity.
- They played a significant role in the myth of Hercules, who was tasked with stealing them as one of his twelve labors.
2. The Apple of Discord
- In Greek mythology, the Apple of Discord was a golden apple inscribed with the words "For the Fairest".
- It was thrown into a wedding feast by the goddess Eris, causing a dispute between Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite, leading to the Trojan War.
3. Golden Delicious Apple
- The Golden Delicious apple is a popular variety of apple known for its sweet, mild flavor and yellow skin.
- It is a widely grown apple variety, originating in West Virginia, USA.
4. Other Uses
- The term "golden apple" can also be used metaphorically to represent something valuable, desirable, or difficult to obtain.