The 6 Most Famous Pumpkins in Literature (and One Rutabaga)

Mar 19, 2019
Articles

Welcome to Marjorie Cowley, your go-to resource for Arts & Entertainment - Books and Literature. In this article, we delve into the enchanting realm of literary pumpkins. Join us as we explore the 6 most iconic pumpkins in literature and meet one peculiar rutabaga along the way.

1. Cinderella's Pumpkin Carriage

One of the most recognizable pumpkin references in literature is Cinderella's magical pumpkin carriage. In the classic fairy tale, the humble pumpkin is transformed into a breathtaking carriage by the Fairy Godmother, whisking Cinderella away to the royal ball. This iconic pumpkin symbolizes hope, transformation, and the power of dreams.

2. Ichabod Crane's Headless Horseman Encounter

Who can forget Ichabod Crane's terrifying encounter with the Headless Horseman in Washington Irving's "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"? In this eerie tale, a menacing pumpkin serves as the Horseman's substitute head, striking fear into the hearts of readers and leaving an indelible image in their minds.

3. The Great Pumpkin in Peanuts

Charles M. Schulz's beloved comic strip, Peanuts, introduced the world to the iconic Great Pumpkin. Every Halloween, Linus Van Pelt waits eagerly for the Great Pumpkin to appear in the pumpkin patch. This endearing storyline teaches us about the power of faith, friendship, and the beauty of imagination.

4. The Pumpkin King in "The Nightmare Before Christmas"

In Tim Burton's animated masterpiece, "The Nightmare Before Christmas," a charismatic pumpkin named Jack Skellington takes the stage as the Pumpkin King. Jack's curiosity leads him to discover Christmas, resulting in a whimsical and unforgettable adventure. This pumpkin-themed tale is a beloved classic for all ages.

5. Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater Nursery Rhyme

Although not an entire literary work, the nursery rhyme "Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater" has been passed down through generations. This rhyme tells the story of a man named Peter, who keeps his wife inside a pumpkin shell. While its origins are mysterious, the rhyme has become deeply ingrained in popular culture.

6. Sam and the Magic Pumpkin in "Too Many Pumpkins"

In the delightful children's book "Too Many Pumpkins" by Linda White, we meet Sam, a woman who despises pumpkins due to a childhood accident. However, when her yard becomes overrun with pumpkins, she learns the value of sharing and community. Sam's heartwarming transformation will leave readers enchanted.

One Rutabaga to Rule Them All

While the focus of this article is on famous pumpkins, we couldn't resist including one peculiar guest – the rutabaga! Often mistaken for a pumpkin, the rutabaga stands out with its distinct identity. Although not as prominently featured in literature, this root vegetable adds a unique twist to our exploration.

At Marjorie Cowley, we are passionate about celebrating the magical interplay between literature and everyday objects. Our Arts & Entertainment - Books and Literature category delves deep into the world of storytelling, highlighting fascinating connections between words and the tangible world around us. Join us on this captivating journey as we unlock the secrets hidden within seemingly ordinary objects.