Apples hold a special place in the Newtonmas celebration because they are a special part of Isaac Newton’s understanding of the theory of gravity. In 1666 Newton was visiting his childhood home when he was sitting in the garden one evening pondering the mysteries of the universe (or whatever geniuses think about in their free time). Newton observed an apple fall from a tree onto the ground. In this moment he was able to hypothesize that the force that drew the apple to the ground was the same force that trapped the moon in it’s celestial dance with the Earth. In that instant, Newton made the conceptual leap that allowed him to understand how gravity interacts with objects both large and small. It is known as one of the greatest “Eureka” moments in the history of science.
As this story has been told over and over again, some inaccuracies have crept into the tale specifically the version that had the apple hit Newton on the head. This fictional blow to the cranium was said to spur Newton’s understanding of gravity. From all the evidence we can find from Newton’s contemporaries, we cannot verify that Newton was struck by an apple in the head. As with many stories the details of the actual events are embellished as the tale is told from person to person. It happens with many stories so much that it is to be expected.
Newton never wrote about the apple incident in the garden but he did mention it on more than one occasion to people who did write down the story that Sir Isaac told about that evening in 1666. There are two solid sources that indicate that Newton was inspired by a falling apple and not a victim of a fruit based cranial attack of some sort. An interesting article about Newton and the apple can be found here if you would like to know more. (Source)
Since apples are tied to one of Sir Isaac’s greatest discoveries they are an ideal way to honor the man and his accomplishments. Plus they are delicious! Celebrate Newtonmas with any sort of apple variety or apple recipe. Make a sweet apple pie or an apple tart, the choice is yours! Enjoy an apple dish with friends and loved ones over a communal table. Share your favorite apple dishes in the comments or send them to @MerryNewtonmas on Twitter.
Merry Newtonmas!
See more ideas on how to celebrate Newtonmas and the Season of Reason at merrynewtonmas.com
No comments:
Post a Comment