Scan barcode
perilous1's review against another edition
4.0
A delightful short-story collection recounting the origins and legendary escapades of England's most famous outlaw.
Aside from the anthropomorphic Disney version, and the occasional satire, this reader's Robin Hood experience was pretty limited. I was pleasantly surprised at how enjoyable this read turned out to be. Robin Hood himself is a wry, puckish character with a consistent moral code and a boyish sort of enthusiasm for freedom. With unparalleled charisma an a knack for improvisation under pressure, his skill in archery is nearly eclipsed by his sheer guile.
The way in which he gradually assembles his loyal band of Merry Men was continually amusing. New recruits were, in most cases, either men who'd been sent to collect a bounty on him--whom he won over through wily charm and chivalry...or they were initially targets of his sanctimonious thievery who proved formidable enough to match or even best him. Perhaps the most endearing part about Robin Hood was the fact that he wasn't invincible. The cocksure rogue gets taken down a notch on several occasions, and generally accepts these knocks to his pride with grace and optimism. Regarding his conflict with the Sheriff and Bishop, however, he is a tireless crusader against injustice.
A certain adolescent machismo run thick through the whole of it, but in the most authentic and era-appropriate way possible. Good men can solve most of their problems though:
a.) A rousing stick fight.
b.) A
c.) Disguising themselves and misleading their foes.
This reader's favorite element was actually found in the characterization of Maid Marion. The long pined-for childhood playmate of Robin Hood, theirs is a pure and endearing sort of relationship. While she doesn't appear in many of the stories, Marion shows up often enough to assert she can hold her own in spite of societal expectations. She's no weepy damsel in distress. Not only does she prove to be an equal to Robin, her bravery very likely saves him and his men on more then one occasion.
Really, this classic was close to a 4 ½ star. The only detraction this reviewer made was purely one of personal taste. I wasn't a fan of the hurried summary that made up the final story, touching on the end of Robin's life. It didn't feel particularly fitting or satisfying as a conclusion. Then again...it may simply not be the ending I'd hoped for.
lulu_readsalot's review against another edition
3.0
Entertaining with the ocasional pun and fun rhyme.
More...