George Washington and the Apple Tree: Legends and Myths in the United States

Abstract

Most children in the United States, myself included, are taught in elementary school the story of George Washington and the cherry tree. The story begins with a young, six-year-old George who has been given an ax as a present by his father. The boy, enjoying this new toy, soon came across a cherry tree, to which he slashed the bark, causing the tree to die. Later, when confronted by his angry father, young George confessed, saying: “I cannot tell a lie, father, you know I cannot tell a lie! I did cut it with my little hatchet.” For telling the truth, George Washington was not punished but praised for his honesty.

A hero ventures forth from the world of common day into a region of supernatural wonder: fabulous forces are there encountered and a decisive victory is won: the hero comes back from this mysterious adventure with the power to bestow boons on his fellow man.

—Joseph Campbell