Have you ever read “The Giver” by Lois Lowry? If you have, then you must know about the apple that played a significant role in the book. For those who don’t know, the apple was quite prominent in the story, and it symbolized several things. It’s a simple fruit, but it carries a much more profound meaning in the setting of the book. The apple in “The Giver” is a representation of several themes, including knowledge, conformity, and rebellion.
Let’s take a closer look at the apple in “The Giver” and the symbolism behind it. The story is set in a utopian society where people are strictly controlled, and knowledge is limited. The apple symbolizes knowledge and the desire for the truth. It represents the idea of questioning authority and seeking answers, even if it means going against the norms. The apple in “The Giver” also represents the idea of rebellion, as it goes against the conformity that is expected in the society.
As you can see, the apple in “The Giver” is more than just a fruit. It represents several themes, including knowledge, conformity, and rebellion. Throughout the book, the apple is a symbol of the characters’ desire for truth and the struggle to break free from the conformity of their society. It’s a powerful symbol that represents the very essence of the story and the themes explored in it.
Symbolism of Apples in Literature
Apples have been used as a symbol in literature for centuries, representing everything from temptation to knowledge and love. The apple symbolizes different things in different literary works, but it is usually used as a symbol of something essential that has been lost or something that we crave.
- In Greek mythology, the apple was associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love. The apple was seen as a symbol of love and beauty, and it was often given as a gift to show affection.
- In the Bible, the apple is a symbol of temptation and original sin. In the story of Adam and Eve, the forbidden fruit is often depicted as an apple, and by eating it, Adam and Eve committed the first sin.
- In Shakespeare’s play, “Romeo and Juliet,” the apple symbolizes love. In the famous balcony scene, Romeo compares Juliet to a beautiful apple that he wants to pluck from its tree and keep forever.
In Lois Lowry’s “The Giver,” the apple takes on a different meaning. In the book, the apple is a symbol of the innocence that has been taken away from the people living in the community. At first, the children in the community are taught that the apple is just a snack, but as they grow older and learn the truth about the history of the community, they begin to realize that there is more to the apple than they were led to believe.
The apple in “The Giver” is also used to represent the idea of choice. When Jonas is chosen to be the new Receiver of Memory, he is given the choice to take an apple from a display of fruit. This is the first real choice he has been given in his life, and it symbolizes the freedom that he will eventually gain through his role as the Receiver of Memory.
| Book | Symbolism of Apple |
|---|---|
| “The Giver” by Lois Lowry | Innocence and choice |
| “Romeo and Juliet” by William Shakespeare | Love |
| The Bible | Temptation and original sin |
| Greek mythology | Love, beauty, and affection |
Overall, the apple is a powerful symbol in literature that can represent many different things, from love and temptation to knowledge and choice. In “The Giver,” the apple represents the loss of innocence and the eventual freedom that Jonas will gain.
The significance of fruit in The Giver
Throughout Lois Lowry’s novel, The Giver, fruit symbolizes a number of important ideas and themes.
- Nature: In a world devoid of color, nature is a foreign concept to Jonas and his community. However, when Jonas receives memories from the Giver, he experiences the taste and smell of fruit for the first time. This represents the beauty and wonder of the natural world that has been stripped away from them.
- Memories and emotions: In the story, the Giver passes on memories to Jonas through fruit. When Jonas first receives a memory, it is of a sled ride in the snow and he tastes apple. The fruit is a way to awaken the emotions and memories associated with the experience and connects the sensation to the joy of the memory.
- Rebellion and change: When Jonas decides to run away from the community and leave everything behind, he remembers a happy memory of family, love, and Christmas. The memory is associated with the taste of a red fruit, which is identified as a forbidden fruit and symbolizes Jonas’ rebellion against the rules and his desire for change.
These meanings of fruit in The Giver can be seen in the following table:
| Fruit | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Apple | The first memory transmitted to Jonas and represents the beauty of nature and memories. |
| Pear | Jonas receives this memory after he finds out about release and begins to question his society. |
| Red fruit | Associated with the happy memory of family and love, it symbolizes Jonas’ rebellion and desire for change. |
In conclusion, fruit in The Giver is a powerful symbol that represents nature, memories, emotions, rebellion and change. It serves to highlight the importance of connection with the natural world and the significance of memories and emotions.
Biblical References to Apples
Throughout history, apples have been associated with certain symbolic meanings. From the Bible to mythology, apples have played a significant role in storytelling. In the book, “The Giver,” the apple holds symbolic meaning as well. Here are some examples of biblical references to apples:
- In the Bible, the Garden of Eden is said to have contained the “tree of life” and the “tree of the knowledge of good and evil,” both of which produced fruit. While it is not specifically stated that the fruit was an apple, it is widely believed to be based on artistic depictions and historical context.
- Proverbs 25:11 says, “A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver.” This comparison between the value of a good word and a precious metal shows the significance of apples as a symbol of wealth and worth.
- Song of Solomon 2:3 says, “As an apple tree among the trees of the forest, so is my beloved among the young men.” This passage compares a lover to an apple tree, emphasizing their strength and beauty.
The Symbolic Meaning of the Apple in “The Giver”
So, what does the apple in “The Giver” represent? In the book, the apple symbolizes knowledge and temptation. This symbolism aligns with the biblical story of Adam and Eve, who were tempted by the apple from the tree of knowledge. In “The Giver,” the apple represents the knowledge and freedom that Jonas gains through taking it. It also represents the temptation to defy the rules and traditions of his community.
The symbolism of the apple extends beyond just “The Giver.” Throughout literature and history, the apple has held significant meaning. Its association with knowledge and temptation makes it a powerful symbol for exploring human nature and morality.
The Apple as a Cultural Icon
Beyond its symbolic significance, the apple is also a cultural icon. It is one of the most recognizable fruits and is often associated with health and nutrition. The phrase “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” has become a common saying, emphasizing the apple’s role in promoting good health.
The apple is also significant in mythology, legend, and folklore. In Greek mythology, the apple was associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love. In Norse mythology, the goddess Iounn was said to have golden apples that gave the gods eternal youth.
| Apple Symbolism in Culture | Examples |
|---|---|
| Health and Nutrition | “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” |
| Love and Beauty | The apple was associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love. |
| Immortality and Eternal Youth | The goddess Iounn had golden apples that gave the gods eternal youth. |
The apple’s widespread use as a symbol speaks to its cultural significance and its ability to convey complex ideas and emotions.
The Apple as a Symbol for Temptation
Since the Biblical story of Adam and Eve, the apple has been a symbol for temptation. In Lois Lowry’s novel, The Giver, the apple serves a similar purpose. When little Gabriel, an infant who Jonas cares deeply for, is in danger of being released, Jonas decides to take him and flee the community. As he leaves, Jonas steals an apple from a tree in the community’s orchard as a symbol of the temptation he faces.
- The apple represents the allure of the unknown. Jonas is leaving the comfort and security of the community, a place he has always known, for a new and uncertain future.
- The apple also symbolizes the risk and danger that come with making choices. By taking Gabriel and leaving the community, Jonas is risking both of their lives.
- Additionally, the apple can be seen as a symbol for knowledge. In the Biblical story, eating the forbidden fruit was believed to grant Adam and Eve knowledge of good and evil. By taking the apple, Jonas is choosing to become knowledgeable about a life outside of the community’s restricted boundaries.
Throughout the novel, the apple serves as a recurring motif, reminding the reader of the risks and temptations Jonas faces. It represents the pull of the unknown, of the desire for freedom and knowledge, and the danger that comes with making choices. The apple is a powerful symbol that captures the novel’s themes of risk-taking, individuality, and the cost of freedom.
| The apple symbolizes temptation and the allure of the unknown. | The apple is a symbol for risk and danger. |
| The apple can represent knowledge and the desire for new understanding. | The apple is a recurring motif that reflects the novel’s themes. |
Overall, the apple in The Giver serves as a powerful symbol for the risks and temptations that come with seeking freedom and knowledge.
Cultural Significance of Apples in Different Societies
The apple is a fruit that has played a significant role in various cultures for centuries. Its symbolic importance in religious and mythological beliefs has led to its cultural significance in different societies.
- In Christianity, the apple is believed to represent sin and temptation. According to the Bible, the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden was an apple that led to the fall of mankind.
- In Norse mythology, apples were associated with the goddess Iðunn, who was known for her youth-restoring apples that kept the gods young and immortal.
- In Greek mythology, the goddess Eris tossed a golden apple inscribed ‘for the fairest’ at the wedding of Peleus and Thetis, sparking a dispute that led to the Trojan War.
The apple has also played a significant role in agriculture and horticulture, serving as an important crop in different regions of the world.
In the United States, apples have come to symbolize patriotism and national pride. This is attributed to the apple orchards that played a significant role in the country’s early history.
The Health Benefits of Apples
The cultural significance of apples stems from its widespread availability and nutritional value. Apples are packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making it a popular fruit in many diets.
Apples are believed to have several health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing cholesterol, and lowering the risk of heart disease and cancer. Eating apples can also help in weight management, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system.
The abundant health benefits of the apple make it an important fruit in many cultures, encouraging its inclusion in various cuisines, recipes, and traditions.
The Different Types of Apples
There are over 7,500 apple varieties grown worldwide, each with its unique characteristics, flavors, and uses. Some of the most popular types of apples include:
| Type of Apple | Color | Flavor | Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gala | Red and yellow stripes | Sweet and crisp | Eating, salads, and sauces |
| Granny Smith | Bright green | Tart and tangy | Baking, pies, and sauces |
| Honeycrisp | Red and yellow speckled | Sweet and juicy | Eating, salads, and sauces |
These different apple varieties are grown in different parts of the world, with each culture developing its unique ways of cultivating and using the fruit.
The Role of Color in Apple Symbolism
The apple in “The Giver” by Lois Lowry is a recurring symbol of knowledge and choice. However, not many readers are aware of the subtle meaning behind the apple’s color. Color symbolism plays an important role in literature, and the color of the apple is no exception. In this article, we will explore the significance of color in apple symbolism.
- Red: The most prominent color associated with apples in “The Giver” is red. Red symbolizes passion, love, and danger. In the novel, Jonas receives memories of love and passion when he eats the red apples given to him by The Giver. The red color of the apple signifies his growing understanding of the value of emotions and relationships.
- Green: Green, on the other hand, represents growth, nature, and life. In “The Giver,” the green apples are reserved for young children who have not yet experienced the intense emotions associated with the red apples. The green apple symbolizes innocence and naivety.
- Yellow: Yellow is often associated with happiness and joy. In “The Giver,” yellow apples are mentioned briefly, but they are not given a significant role in the story. However, the color yellow can still represent the fleeting moments of happiness that Jonas experiences throughout the novel.
In addition to color, the size and ripeness of the apple can also have symbolic meaning. For example, a small, unripe apple may represent the beginning of a new journey or the potential for growth, while a large, fully ripe apple may represent the culmination of a journey or the achievement of a goal.
| Color | Symbolism |
|---|---|
| Red | Passion, Love, Danger |
| Green | Innocence, Naivety |
| Yellow | Happiness, Joy |
In conclusion, the color of the apple in “The Giver” is not just a simple detail, but rather a meaningful symbol that adds depth to the story. By paying attention to the color of the apples, readers can gain a deeper understanding of the themes and messages of the novel.
Apple Symbolism in Art
The apple has been a symbol in art throughout history, representing various meanings. In Greek mythology, apples were associated with love and beauty, while in Christianity it was the fruit of the forbidden tree of knowledge. However, in Lois Lowry’s book, The Giver, the apple holds a specific symbolism that ties to the plot and themes of the story.
- The Number 7: In the book, the apple is described as being “a perfect sphere of uniform color.” The apple also has “a small indentation on one side – as though a sculptor had removed a tiny sliver, creating a small, perfect mouth.” The apple in the book has seven images, which represent the seven members of Jonas’ family. The apple also has seven seeds, representing the seven memories that Jonas receives from The Giver.
- Biblical References: As mentioned, the apple has biblical references to the story of Adam and Eve. The apple in The Giver also symbolizes the apple from the Garden of Eden, representing the knowledge that Jonas receives from The Giver. The knowledge that Jonas receives changes him and makes him question the orders and rules of his community, much like how Adam and Eve were expelled from Paradise for questioning God’s rules.
- Prohibitive Power: In The Giver, the apple also represents the power of prohibition. In Jonas’ society, food choices are strictly regulated, and the apple is one of the few symbols of the outside world that Jonas is exposed to. The apple represents a forbidden object that Jonas is drawn to, symbolizing his growing understanding of how limited his world is.
The apple in Lois Lowry’s The Giver holds a unique symbolism that differentiates from its traditional meanings. The apple in the book represents knowledge, power, and the limitations of Jonas’ society. It symbolizes the importance of freedom and the risks involved in acquiring and spreading knowledge. The apple is a powerful piece of symbolism that contributes to the themes of the book.
Overall, the apple is a versatile symbol in art that represents many different meanings. In The Giver, it represents the importance of knowledge and freedom. Through art and literature, the apple’s symbolism has evolved, and its meaning continues to be relevant today.
| Symbolism of Apple in Art | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Greek Mythology | Love and beauty |
| Christianity | The forbidden fruit of knowledge |
| The Giver | The knowledge of the outside world and the power of prohibition |
The apple is a symbol that has been used throughout history, and each culture has different interpretations of its meaning. However, in The Giver, Lois Lowry creates a new symbolism that adds to the themes of her story, and it is a testament to the versatility of this simple fruit.
The Apple as a Political Symbol
The apple in “The Giver” is a symbol that primarily represents the notion of obedience to authority. The society in “The Giver” is based on a rigid set of rules that are enforced strictly, and deviation from these rules is not tolerated. The apple is used as a tool by those in power to reinforce this obedience.
- The apple is given to Jonas by the Chief Elder as a symbol of honor for his selection as the Receiver. It serves as a reminder to Jonas of his duty to obey the rules and his responsibility to keep the memories of the past.
- When Jonas leaves the community and meets an apple for the first time in nature, he is surprised by its color and taste. This experience opens his eyes to the possibility of a different way of life outside of the community’s strict rules.
- In the story, the apple is also used to symbolize the power of the state. The apple is not just a symbol of authority in the community, but also represents the power of the government to control the behavior of the citizens. This is illustrated by the way that the apple is used to administer medicine that can change a person’s behavior.
Furthermore, the apple serves as a metaphor for the way that the state controls the information and knowledge that the citizens have access to, perpetuating the status quo.
| Symbolism of the apple in “The Giver” | Meaning |
|---|---|
| The apple given to Jonas by the Chief Elder | A symbol of honor but also a reminder of his duty to obey the rules and keep the memories of the past. |
| The apple outside of the community | A symbol of what is possible outside of the community’s strict rules. |
| The apple used to administer medicine | A metaphor for the way that the state controls the behavior of the citizens, perpetuating the status quo. |
The apple in “The Giver” is not just a symbol of obedience but also a powerful political symbol that represents the control that the state has over the behavior, knowledge, and information of the citizens. It serves as a warning about the dangers of blind obedience and the importance of questioning authority.
The Apple as a Symbol for Knowledge
The apple has long been associated with knowledge and temptation, stemming from the biblical story of Adam and Eve. In The Giver, the apple serves as a powerful symbol of knowledge and the desire for knowledge.
- One of the most significant moments in the novel is when Jonas takes an apple home from the community’s sharing area. This apple represents the first time Jonas experiences a forbidden emotion, curiosity, as he wonders about the apple’s taste and origin.
- The apple also represents the knowledge that is kept hidden from the community by the Committee of Elders. Jonas discovers that the Committee is withholding important information about the past and the world beyond their community. The apple represents Jonas’s desire to learn and understand more about the world around him.
- Moreover, the apple functions as a metaphor for the power of knowledge. Just as eating from the Tree of Knowledge in the biblical story gave Adam and Eve the ability to distinguish right from wrong, Jonas’s pursuit of knowledge allows him to see the world in a new way and become conscious of the larger issues and problems facing his community.
It is also worth noting that the apple in The Giver is often associated with the number 9. In Jonas’s twelfth year, he receives his vocation as the Receiver of Memory, which requires him to receive memories from the current Receiver, a wise old man known as the Giver. As Jonas begins to receive these memories, he notices that he experiences them in groups of nine. The apple that Jonas takes is also described as “a bright, shiny red, like the apple in the book of stories” (p. 39), suggesting that it has mythical, even legendary, qualities. It is as if the apple represents a source of hidden knowledge that is waiting to be discovered.
| The Number 9 in The Giver | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Jonas receives memories in groups of nine | The number 9 is associated with knowledge and revelation |
| Jonas is the 9th Receiver of Memory | Jonas embodies the power and responsibility of knowledge |
Overall, the apple in The Giver is a potent and multifaceted symbol that represents both the desire for knowledge and the power of knowledge. It is associated with the number 9, which adds another layer of meaning to the symbol. By using the apple in this way, Lowry highlights the importance of knowledge and critical thinking in the face of a society that seeks to suppress independent thought and creativity.
The Importance of the Apple in American History
Apples have been a symbol of American history since the country’s inception, and have played a significant role in shaping the nation, from the earliest colonizers to the present day.
- The first apple orchard was planted in the American colonies in 1625, and by the 1900s there were over 14,000 varieties of apples grown in the United States. Apples were an important source of food for early settlers, and were often used to trade with Native Americans for other goods.
- During the 19th century, apples became a symbol of American identity and independence. John Chapman, better known as Johnny Appleseed, made it his life’s work to plant apple trees across the country, providing settlers with a valuable source of food and drink.
- Apples have also played a significant role in American literature and culture. In 1847, Henry David Thoreau wrote in Walden, “It is remarkable how closely the history of the apple tree is connected with that of man.” Apples have been featured in works by American authors such as William Faulkner, Eudora Welty, and John Steinbeck.
The apple has also become an emblem of American ingenuity and innovation. The famous logo of Apple, Inc. is recognized worldwide as a symbol of cutting-edge technology and design.
In the context of The Giver, the apple symbolizes both the history and the future of the community. The Giver’s memories of the apple bring to mind the rich history and traditions of the United States, while the new apple at the end of the novel represents the hope for a brighter future and a renewed connection to the past. Through its use of the apple symbol, The Giver pays homage to the important role that apples have played in shaping the American identity.
| Event | Year | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| The first apple orchard is planted in the American colonies | 1625 | Apples become an important source of food and trade for settlers |
| Johnny Appleseed begins planting apple trees across the country | 1800s | Apples become a symbol of American independence and identity |
| Number of apple varieties grown in the US | 1900s | Over 14,000 varieties are grown in the United States |
| Apple, Inc. is founded | 1976 | The apple logo becomes a symbol of American innovation and technology |
Overall, the apple’s historical significance in America and its cultural symbolism make it a fitting and powerful symbol in The Giver. Through the use of this one simple fruit, the novel evokes both the history and the future of the community, and highlights the importance of connection to our past and our cultural identity.
What Does the Apple in The Giver Symbolize?
Q: What is The Giver?
The Giver is a novel by Lois Lowry published in 1993. It is a dystopian young adult novel set in a society where emotions and memories have been eliminated.
Q: Why is the apple important?
The apple in The Giver is one of the few symbols of life and the natural world in the otherwise sterile and controlled world of the story.
Q: Who gives Jonas the apple?
The character Fiona gives Jonas the apple at the beginning of the novel. Fiona is one of Jonas’ friends and also works at the Nurturing Center.
Q: What does the apple represent?
The apple in The Giver represents life, growth, and the natural world. It is a symbol of the things that are missing from the society in which Jonas lives.
Q: Why is the apple red?
The red color of the apple represents passion and energy, which are opposed to the calm, stagnant nature of the community in which Jonas lives.
Q: What happens to the apple at the end of the book?
The apple is not mentioned specifically at the end of the book, but it can be assumed that it continues to represent the hope for a better life outside of the community.
Q: Are there other symbols in The Giver?
Yes, there are many symbols throughout the novel, including the sled, the memories, and the colors.
Closing Thoughts
The apple in The Giver is a symbol of life and the natural world. In a world where emotions and memories are suppressed, the apple serves as a reminder of what is missing and what could be. Thank you for taking the time to explore this symbolism with us. We hope that you will visit again soon for more insights into your favorite books and movies!