Does 'Folklore, Myths And Legends Of Britain' Include Stories About Robin Hood?

I've got my well-worn copy of 'Folklore, Myths and Legends of Britain' right here, and yes, Robin Hood absolutely makes an appearance. The book treats him as one of England's most enduring folk heroes, placing him alongside other legendary figures like King Arthur. The version presented leans into the medieval ballads rather than modern interpretations - you'll find Sherwood Forest teeming with dangerous outlaws and corrupt sheriffs. The book emphasizes how Robin's story evolved over centuries, from early peasant rebel narratives to the more romanticized noble thief we know today. His merry men get decent coverage too, with Little John's quarterstaff fights and Friar Tuck's cunning being highlighted as key parts of the legend.

Having studied British folklore extensively, I can confirm Robin Hood occupies several fascinating pages in 'Folklore, Myths and Legends of Britain'. The book approaches him not just as a standalone character, but as part of England's rich tradition of resistance figures.

The analysis digs deep into how different regions claimed Robin as their own - Yorkshire insisting he came from their forests, Nottinghamshire defending their stake in his legend. The book presents multiple origin theories, from the possibility he was based on real medieval outlaws to theories suggesting he was a forest spirit anthropomorphized over time. The archery contests, disguises, and wealth redistribution schemes all get detailed mentions.

What makes this treatment special is how the book connects Robin to broader themes in British mythology. It draws parallels between his greenwood hideouts and ancient forest deities, his band of followers and older communal hunter myths. The inclusion of less famous ballads, like 'Robin Hood and the Monk', shows how the legend adapted through different historical periods while keeping its core appeal intact.

That thick blue tome was my childhood bedtime bible, and Robin Hood's section still has my crayon scribbles all over it. 'Folklore, Myths and Legends of Britain' presents him through three distinct lenses - the historical records that might have inspired him, the medieval ballads that shaped his image, and the local traditions that kept his story alive.

The book has this awesome map showing all the supposed Robin Hood locations across Britain, from his alleged grave at Kirklees to the Major Oak where he supposedly hid. What stuck with me was how it contrasts the early violent ballads where Robin kills without remorse with later versions where he becomes more of a social justice figure. The illustrations are fantastic too - medieval manuscript style drawings of the famous archery contest scene, and a particularly creepy depiction of the Sheriff of Nottingham.