Robin Hood

Author: [UK] D.K. Swan
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2000-10-01
Features: The Robin Hood story originated in the period we call the Middle Ages (approximately 1000-1500), and these were all "folk" stories, meaning they were told among rural farmers rather than the rich, or among the elderly, or among those who could read and write, like the clergy. Most ordinary people were poor, and the wealthy and powerful were only the nobles and landlords. Some (but not all) clergy were also wealthy and powerful. Only a few powerful individuals helped the poor. Under such conditions, ordinary people liked to hear stories of "folk heroes" like Robin Hood. Many countries have their own folk hero stories. Sometimes, they are based on real events; sometimes, like Robin Hood, we don't know if he was a real person. Folk heroes always triumph over evil forces. When the powerful act unjustly, folk heroes like Robin Hood help ordinary people. Those who listen to these stories feel that the hero is "on our side."