The Man as a Symbol



          A symbol of justice, charity, and freedom from the tyrannical grip of oppressive authorities, Robin Hood is a literary hero whose popularity will always endure. People view this outlaw as a relatable figure perhaps because of his humble lifestyle or for the way he helped the poor. Either way, this character has been revered in literature for many years.

        This man can be traced throughout history, appearing in poems, stories, and ballads. The ballads were one of the earliest elements of the Robin Hood legend. Written from the perspective of poor farmers and artisans, these works were simple and at times violent. The archetypal character we all know and love evolved from these early writings. These ballads were sung to common people, yeoman, and artisans. "'For centuries Robin Hood was a symbol of independence, of resistance to authority in church or state. This concept is central to the whole saga and particularly prominent in the early ballads'" ("Robin Hood").

        However, over the years what Robin Hood represents has differed. "Robin Hood, for centuries a symbol of popular independence and resistance to authority, was quickly pressed into service. As part of the Cornonation celebration at Nottingham in 1661 a short play was enacted in which Robin's traditional loyalty to King Richard was carefully exaggerated..." ("Robin Hood"). This outlaw underwent a process of gentrification and his social status was upgraded as a result. Reflecting the social changes of that time, this heroic figure was described as a nobleman. However, even as the ennoblement of Robin was in full swing, it proved to be impossible to completely separate him from his popular origins. In fact, though his image was cleaned up a bit, he did become a purely aristocratic hero. In fact, he evolved into the archetypal 'social bandit', as Eric Hobsbawm has described it, a noble robber hated by tyrants and authority, but loved and protected by the people ("Robin Hood").

        Despite the changes this character underwent, the bravery and swagger Robin Hood exhibits is unchangeable. Even if portrayed as a nobleman, this outlaw has a certain edginess that draws readers to him. Robin Hood will always symbolize bravery and heart. Attributes such as those are completely unforgettable.

Works Cited

Cox, Judy. "Robin Hood: Earl, Outlaw, or Rebel?". International Socialism. 1998. Web. 20

         November 2010. <http://pubs.socialistreviewindex.org.uk/isj78/cox.htm>.