Lore
Legends 37: An Apple a Day
Sep 30, 2024
Explore the intriguing blend of folklore and fruit, from the devil's curse on blackberries to the symbolism of apples and coconuts. Discover the dark yet enchanting tales of fairies intertwined with real hardships faced by families, especially Nancy Black and her tragic journey. Unravel the mysteries of the Peach Girls, whose quest for a fresh start in Oregon ended in heartbreak. This narrative mashup reveals how legends shape our understanding of history and culture.
34:07
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Quick takeaways
- The folklore surrounding blackberries illustrates how cultural narratives can depict fruits as both nourishing and harbingers of misfortune.
- The tragic tale of the Peach Girls exemplifies how real events can transform into legends, impacting community identity despite factual inaccuracies.
Deep dives
The Devil's Curse on Blackberries
According to British folklore, after being cast out of heaven following his battle with the archangel Michael, the devil landed in a thorny blackberry bush, resulting in his curse on the blackberries. Some tales recount him stomping on them, spitting on them, or even urinating on them, effectively ruining the fruit. This traditional narrative correlates with the celebration of Michaelmas, a feast honoring Archangel Michael, which marks a significant period of superstitions surrounding blackberries. Eating the blackberries after Michaelmas was believed to attract misfortune or even bring fatal consequences, rooted in practical observations that frost could render them unsafe to eat.
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