Birth in the Greenwood

In a divided England, Robert Fitzooth is born to a Saxon mother and a Norman father, symbolizing the country's fractured identity. His parents' secret marriage and flight into Sherwood Forest set the stage for Robin's lifelong struggle against injustice. Raised amid the greenwood, Robin inherits both the bitterness of the dispossessed Saxons and the chivalric ideals of the Normans. His grandfather, Sir George Gamwell, initially opposes the union but is reconciled by the birth of his grandson, blessing Robin to be a champion for the downtrodden. This origin story frames Robin as a bridge between peoples, destined to fight for justice in a land riven by conquest and cruelty.

Norman Oppression, Saxon Resistance

After the Norman Conquest, Saxons are reduced to serfs, and the forests become royal preserves, with harsh penalties for poaching. Prince John, ruling in King Richard's absence, exploits the land, appointing corrupt sheriffs and clergy who oppress the poor. The infamous Sheriff of Nottingham embodies this tyranny, enforcing brutal forest laws and enriching himself at the expense of the people. Amidst this, Robin Hood emerges as a mysterious benefactor, aiding the oppressed and evading capture. The seeds of rebellion are sown as Robin's legend grows, inspiring hope among the suffering and fear among the powerful.

Outlawed at the Altar

On the eve of his marriage to Marian Fitzwalter, Robin is betrayed by his steward Worman and denounced as a traitor by Prince John's agents. The wedding at Fountains Abbey is interrupted by Sir Guy of Gisborne, who reads a false mandate of outlawry. Robin's defiance—refusing to submit to John's authority—marks his transformation from nobleman to outlaw. Marian's loyalty is unwavering; she pledges herself to Robin, not his title. Forced to flee, Robin and his loyal followers retreat to Sherwood, vowing to fight for justice until King Richard's return.

Sherwood's Merry Brotherhood

Deep in Sherwood Forest, Robin gathers a diverse group: dispossessed yeomen, skilled archers, and those wronged by authority. They swear an oath to rob the corrupt rich, aid the poor, and harm no woman. The band's code is one of honor, mercy, and resistance to tyranny. Their exploits—rescuing friends, outwitting sheriffs, and redistributing wealth—make them folk heroes. The greenwood becomes a symbol of freedom, camaraderie, and hope, as Robin's leadership forges a new kind of community outside the law.

Maid Marian's Defiance

Marian, daughter of Lord Fitzwalter, refuses to be a pawn in political marriages. Disguised as the shepherdess Clorinda, she matches Robin in archery and spirit. When her father and Prince John conspire to control her fate, Marian escapes to Sherwood, embracing life as Maid Marian, queen of the outlaws. Her courage, wit, and skill with bow and sword make her Robin's equal and the heart of the band. Marian's presence challenges gender roles and adds depth to the legend, as love and loyalty triumph over social convention.

Little John's Challenge

Robin's encounter with the giant John Little at a narrow bridge leads to a memorable quarterstaff duel. Though Robin is bested and dunked in the stream, he welcomes his opponent as a friend. The band humorously renames him Little John, and he becomes Robin's most steadfast lieutenant. Their camaraderie, forged in friendly combat, exemplifies the band's spirit: strength, humility, and loyalty. Little John's leadership and humor are vital to the group's success and enduring legend.

Friar Tuck's Unlikely Welcome

Robin's search for a priest leads to a comical and bruising encounter with Friar Tuck, a red-faced, brawny hermit with a love of food, drink, and a good fight. After a series of challenges—ferrying, staff duels, and shared feasts—Tuck is welcomed into the band. His presence brings spiritual guidance, comic relief, and a hearty appetite. Tuck's irreverence and courage make him a beloved figure, embodying the story's blend of piety and rebellion.

Robbing the Rich, Helping the Poor

Robin's band targets corrupt officials, greedy abbots, and wealthy travelers, redistributing their ill-gotten gains to the needy. Notable episodes include the rescue of Sir Richard of Legh from financial ruin, the humiliation of the Sheriff of Nottingham, and the clever outwitting of monks and merchants. The outlaws' actions are guided by a strict moral code: they never harm the innocent and always aid the oppressed. Their exploits become legendary, inspiring the common people and undermining the authority of their enemies.

The Silver Arrow Trap

Prince John, seeking to capture Robin, announces a grand archery tournament with a silver arrow as the prize. Despite the obvious trap, Robin cannot resist the challenge. Disguised, he wins the contest with unmatched skill, splitting his rival's arrow. The victory is bittersweet, as the outlaws must fight their way out of an ambush. The episode cements Robin's reputation as England's greatest archer and a master of daring escapes, while highlighting the constant danger he and his band face.

The Sheriff's Humiliations

The Sheriff of Nottingham becomes obsessed with capturing Robin, only to be tricked, robbed, and publicly embarrassed time and again. Whether as a butcher in the market, a beggar, or a palmer, Robin's disguises and quick wit turn the tables on the Sheriff. These episodes provide comic relief and reinforce the theme of the clever underdog triumphing over corrupt authority. The Sheriff's failures become a running joke, endearing Robin further to the people.

The Witch's Deception

The Witch of Paplewick, Mother Maudlin, uses magic and trickery to sow discord among the outlaws, even impersonating Marian to cause strife. Her curses and illusions test the band's unity and resolve. Ultimately, Robin exposes her deceptions and banishes her from Sherwood, restoring harmony. This episode explores the power of belief, the dangers of manipulation, and the resilience of the outlaws' fellowship.

The Rescue of Friends

Time and again, Robin and his band risk everything to save captured friends—Will Scarlet, Sir Richard, and others—from execution or imprisonment. These rescues, often involving clever disguises, bold attacks, or appeals to justice, showcase the group's solidarity and resourcefulness. The willingness to risk all for one another is a core value, reinforcing the bonds that make the band more than just a gang of outlaws.

The Black Knight's Secret

The enigmatic Black Knight appears at crucial moments, rescuing Robin and his men from overwhelming odds. His true identity is revealed to be King Richard the Lionheart, returned from captivity. The Black Knight's interventions symbolize the hope of rightful rule and the restoration of justice. His alliance with Robin validates the outlaws' cause and foreshadows the coming resolution.

King Richard's Return

With Richard's return, Prince John's power collapses. The King pardons Robin and his followers, restores his lands and title, and personally weds Robin to Marian. The outlaws are celebrated as heroes, and many join Richard's campaigns. The greenwood days end, but the spirit of Sherwood lives on. This resolution affirms the values of loyalty, justice, and rightful authority, bringing the legend full circle.

Prince John's Revenge

After Richard departs for war, Prince John regains power and seeks vengeance. Robin, now Earl of Huntingdon, is lured into a trap in Nottingham, betrayed, and imprisoned. John's cruelty and the Sheriff's malice resurface, threatening all that Robin has gained. The cycle of oppression and resistance continues, testing Robin's resilience and the loyalty of his friends.

Robin's Final Stand

Imprisoned and left to die, Robin escapes with Little John's help, but is gravely injured. Pursued by John's men, he flees with Marian and a handful of loyal followers. Their desperate flight ends at Kirkleys Nunnery, where Marian seeks sanctuary and Robin, weakened, seeks aid. The Prioress, motivated by greed and fear, betrays Robin, bleeding him to death. The end of Robin's life is marked by loyalty, loss, and the enduring love of Marian and his friends.

The Last Arrow

As he lies dying, Robin asks to be buried where his final arrow falls. With Marian and Little John at his side, he draws his bow one last time, sending the arrow into the greenwood. His death is mourned by all who loved him, and his grave becomes a place of legend. The story ends with the passing of an era, but the memory of Robin Hood endures in song and story.

Legends Never Die

After Robin's death, Marian becomes Prioress, and Little John disappears into legend. The tales of Sherwood inspire future generations, and even kings seek out the hermits who were once Robin's companions. The greenwood, the horn's call, and the ideals of justice and fellowship remain, ensuring that Robin Hood's legend will never fade from England's heart.

Characters

Robin Hood (Robert of Locksley)

Robin is the archetypal outlaw hero: noble-born, skilled in arms and archery, and driven by a deep sense of justice. His dual heritage—Saxon and Norman—makes him a symbol of unity in a divided land. Robin's leadership is marked by charisma, cleverness, and compassion. He is fiercely loyal to his friends and relentless against oppression. Over time, Robin evolves from a wronged nobleman to a legendary folk hero, embodying the hope of the common people and the ideal of the just rebel.

Maid Marian (Lady Marian Fitzwalter)

Marian is more than a love interest; she is Robin's equal in wit, courage, and skill. Defying her father and societal expectations, she chooses a life of danger and freedom in Sherwood. Marian's presence challenges gender norms, and her loyalty to Robin is unwavering. Her journey from noblewoman to outlaw queen and, finally, to Prioress after Robin's death, reflects resilience, adaptability, and enduring love.

Little John (John Little)

Little John is Robin's closest friend and second-in-command. His immense size and strength are matched by his good humor and humility. Initially a rival, he becomes a brother-in-arms, embodying the values of loyalty, courage, and camaraderie. Little John's steadfastness and practical wisdom are crucial to the band's survival and success.

Friar Tuck (Brother Michael)

Tuck is a paradox: a man of the cloth who delights in food, drink, and fighting. His spiritual guidance is as robust as his quarterstaff. Tuck's humor, resilience, and unconventional piety make him a beloved figure, providing both comic relief and moral grounding for the outlaws.

Will Scarlet (William Scathlock)

Scarlet is Robin's kinsman and one of his earliest followers. Known for his fiery temper and skill with sword and bow, he is fiercely loyal and often the first to leap into danger. Scarlet's devotion to Robin and the cause is unwavering, and his eventual death is a profound loss for the band.

Much, the Miller's Son

Much represents the common folk drawn into Robin's cause. Orphaned by the Sheriff's cruelty, he finds a new family among the outlaws. His youthful enthusiasm, naivety, and hero-worship of Robin add warmth and relatability to the story.

Sir Richard of Legh

Sir Richard is a nobleman saved from ruin by Robin's generosity. His loyalty and gratitude lead him to aid the outlaws, providing shelter and support. Sir Richard's story highlights themes of honor, debt, and the power of kindness to forge lasting alliances.

The Sheriff of Nottingham

The Sheriff is Robin's primary antagonist, embodying the abuses of power and the futility of tyranny. His relentless pursuit of Robin is marked by arrogance, incompetence, and repeated humiliation. The Sheriff's failures provide both tension and comic relief, underscoring the triumph of cleverness over brute force.

Prince John

John's lust for power and disregard for justice make him the story's ultimate villain. His schemes drive much of the conflict, and his rivalry with Robin is both personal and political. John's eventual downfall and continued malice after Richard's return illustrate the persistence of evil and the need for vigilance.

Sir Guy of Gisborne

Sir Guy is Robin's nemesis and Marian's unwanted suitor. His jealousy, pride, and willingness to betray honor for ambition make him a dangerous foe. Guy's repeated defeats and ultimate death at Robin's hand are both a personal and symbolic victory for the cause of justice.

Plot Devices

Episodic Structure and Ballad Tradition

The narrative unfolds as a collection of episodes—rescues, contests, disguises, and escapes—mirroring the oral ballad tradition. This structure allows for a variety of tones, from high adventure to comedy, and keeps the pace brisk and engaging. Each episode reinforces the central themes of justice, loyalty, and resistance.

Disguise and Deception

Robin and his band frequently use disguises—beggars, butchers, monks, palmers—to infiltrate enemy ranks, gather intelligence, and turn the tables on their foes. This device highlights the power of wit over brute force and the fluidity of social roles in the pursuit of justice.

Foreshadowing and Prophecy

Robin's dreams, the warnings of friends, and the superstitions surrounding the forest foreshadow key events, especially his eventual downfall. These elements add a sense of inevitability and tragedy, deepening the legend's resonance.

Symbolic Objects

The longbow, the silver arrow, and Robin's horn are recurring symbols of skill, freedom, and unity. The greenwood itself is both a literal refuge and a metaphor for the possibility of a just society outside corrupt institutions.

The Return of the King

King Richard's return is the ultimate deus ex machina, resolving the central conflict and restoring order. His secret identity as the Black Knight adds suspense and underscores the theme of rightful authority.

Analysis

Roger Lancelyn Green's The Adventures of Robin Hood is a masterful synthesis of centuries-old ballads, folklore, and literary invention, reimagined for a modern audience. At its heart, the story is a celebration of justice, resistance, and the enduring power of community. Robin Hood's legend persists because it speaks to universal desires: the hope that the oppressed can triumph, that cleverness and courage can overcome tyranny, and that loyalty and love are worth any risk. The episodic structure, rich cast, and blend of humor, tragedy, and romance make the tale endlessly adaptable and relevant. In a world still marked by inequality and abuse of power, Robin Hood's greenwood remains a symbol of the possibility of a better, fairer society—one where the last arrow, loosed in defiance, still flies true.

Last updated: May 10, 2025