Bulfinch’s Mythology · Chapter
Robin Hood explained
This chapter introduces the legendary figure of Robin Hood, an outlaw from the time of King Richard I, who, with his band of merry outlaws, robs from the rich to give to the poor, protecting women and the downtrodden.
What happens
This chapter introduces the legendary figure of Robin Hood, an outlaw from the time of King Richard I, who, with his band of merry outlaws, robs from the rich to give to the poor, protecting women and the downtrodden. It recounts the famous archery contest from Sir Walter Scott's Ivanhoe, where Robin, under the alias Locksley, defeats the forester Hubert by splitting his arrow and later splitting a willow wand, winning the prize but refusing to join Prince John's service.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Falling action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This excerpt marks the dramatic climax because it presents the emotional peak of Tristram’s brief reunion with…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Heroism and the Quest
Robin Hood embodies the heroic outlaw, defending the poor and challenging corrupt authority, as seen in his archery contest against Hubert.
- Hospitality and Its Violation
The chapter contrasts Robin's generous sharing of his prize with Hubert against Prince John's hostile and unjust treatment of the contestants.
Characters to notice
- King Arthur
Mentioned indirectly as part of the broader legendary context, but not directly appearing in this chapter.
Key passages
“He suffered no woman to be oppressed or otherwise molested; poore men's goods he spared, abundantlie relieving them with that which by theft he got from abbeys and houses of rich earles.”
Robin Hood protected women from harm and did not steal from the poor; instead, he gave them the goods he took from wealthy churchmen and nobles.
Describes Robin's moral code and his popularity among common people.
“Letting fly his arrow with a little more precaution than before, it lighted right upon that of his competitor, which it split to shivers.”
Robin shot his arrow with extra care, and it struck Hubert's arrow dead center, splitting it into pieces.
Highlights Robin's extraordinary archery skill, astonishing the crowd.
