what is the true meaning behind the robin hood story?

Question

any ideas of what it might represent?

Answer 1

That depends a lot on the person relating the story; what does s/he put into the tale?

As for the legend overall, I read it as the struggle of the masses against an oppressive minority. Robin Hood is the superhero, the zeitgeist, of England under King John, while Richard Lionheart was abroad trying to conquer the Holy Land, secure trade routes, and maintain relations with France. Robin Hood represents the interests of the working class, the magical force that would redress some of the unjustices of the ruling class.

Also, note that he's a good guy who's gone underground to fight the forces of evil. The peasants know what's right and wrong, but are powerless to oppose John's soldiers. The legend gives the common person a dream, an icon to emulate: if you're doing what's right, even if you have to do it in secret, keep doing what's right. Eventually, the forces of good will return to power, and your good deeds will be recognized as a contribution to society.

Does that help?

Answer 2

Meanings are what the readers take from the story not what the author may have intended at the time. William Faulkner was clear on this point about his writings and I agree.

If I were going to take meaning from the story in our current society I would say that it teaches that civil disobedience is at times not only acceptable but required when laws are causing injustice. A modern example of this would be California where medical marijuana is legal (by state law) but officials can still be prosecuted under federal law. Obviously (if you agree or not) the people in California found denying this to medical patients unfair treatment.

Protest when laws that still separated black and white eating places were unjust law that were actively opposed.

Michael John Weaver, M.S.

Answer 3

Of course stealing is punishable by law. This was the point. He wasn't just trying to help random poor people. He represented defiance against the ruling order, who imposed unjust laws that hurt the poor while they grew rich and full. Human justice dictated that this be changed, or at the least, fought in some way. What you are told is right is not ALWAYS what is truly right.

Answer 4

Robin Hood was a legendary English folk hero who led a band of outlaws in Sherwood forest and opposed the tyranny and excessive taxes of King John. He is mentioned in the 14th century poem Piers Plowman.

Answer 5

Hm. I'm going to have to go with Batman Begins. I thought the storyline and just the general atmosphere was enjoyable. Though The Dark Knight was good as well. Haven't seen the newest one yet, unfortunately. Although, I've gotta say that I love the old Batman movie with Adam West. Always good for some laughs, you know? BQ: The only one I've seen is Batman: Gotham Knight. I liked it.

Answer 6

it was actually based on a true story during the middle ages where already rich andn morally corrupt nobles (sherrifs too) would scam the poor out of their money, raise taxes, or exploit weaknesses to obtain money unethically. the meaning of robin hood is to steal from the rich and give to the poor.. (but that's illegal, so just don't scam poor people)

Answer 7

Nobody likes a greedy rich man!!!! lol
steal from the rich and instead of buying a plasma screen with the money give it to the poor!

Answer 8

discussing the legend and aura, rather than the historical man himself...

resistance to the entrenchment of feudal monarchies, that the common folk still have the right to resist oppressive overlords.

From its time, it would seem to be an anti-Norman sentiment, or it could be based on even older traditions, a continuation of resistance/identity from prior invasions (Saxon, Roman, etc).

Answer 9

he robbed from the wicked rich to help the poor. thats only a story good for reading . in real life,its different . one shouldnt steal at all .stealing or robbing is bad&this act is punishable by law

Answer 10

Take from the rich, and give to the poor.