The apple of discord symbolizes conflict and rivalry in mythology, particularly highlighted in the story of the Trojan War. Thrown by Eris, it incited a contest among the goddesses Hera, Athena, and Aphrodite over who should be deemed the fairest. This seemingly trivial act illustrates how small provocations can escalate into major conflicts, capturing the essence of discord and rivalry that shapes human fate. The apple serves as a representation of how desire and competition can disrupt harmony, leading to significant and often tragic consequences.