Eyewitness Classics: Robin Hood

Recounts the life and adventures of Robin Hood, who, with his band of followers, lived in Sherwood Forest as an outlaw dedicated to fighting tyranny. Illustrated notes throughout the text explain the historical background of the story.

Table of Contents:

Introduction
Robin's Country
The Feudal System

1. Robert of Huntingdon
2. The Call of the Forest
3. The Castle of the North Wind
4. A Guest at the Feast

Religious Life

5. The Archery Contest

Archery

6. Flight to the Forest
7. The Master Butcher
8. The Return of the King

Richard's Crusade

9. Fight to the Death
10. Imprisoned
11. The Final Arrow

Through the Ages

INTRODUCTION

Who was Robin Hood?

Everyone has heard of the outlaw who lived in Sherwood Forest, in England. But the stories of Robin Hood are legend, not history. They may have been based on the exploits of a real outlaw, such as the "Robert Hood, fugitive" who is listed in the records of the English courts of 1225. But no one knows for certain who Robin Hood was, or if he even existed.

In the 14th century, ballads (songs that tell stories) about Robin became well known. This version is based on the earliest ballads, but includes much that was added as Robin's fame grew. By the late 15th century, Robin featured as a character in games that were played in May to mark the beginning of summer. Marian and a friar also appeared in the games, and so probably became linked with Robin—Marian as his sweetheart and the friar as Friar Tuck. By 1600, Robin had become associated (in plays) with Robert, Earl of Huntingdon, who lived during the reign of Richard I (1189-99). Stories of Robin Hood survive because outlaws and rebels are attractive characters, especially those who rob not for gain, but in the cause of justice for common people.

The special quality of this Eyewitness Classic is to bring Robin's medieval world to life. We see photographs and pictures of kings, peasants, merchants, and noblemen. We see the outlaws and their weapons, and the trees and animals of the forest in which they live. As we read, we can picture joining Robin and his men in the freedom of the greenwood.