Folklore: Robin Hood

This year for Halloween I've decided to whip together a Robin Hood costume. It's an easy and inexpensive costume, something I've never done before, and also someone I can relate with. Robin Hood has always been portrayed as a heroic outlaw who steals from the rich and gives to the poor. Although his methods are criminal, his ideals are very humanitarian. In this post I want to do a little bit of study on the historical, political, and cultural significance of this classic English folktale.

The Folktale

There are many interpretations and variations of the folktale. The story that I'm most familiar with is the 1973 Disney animation I watched as a kid. The setting is in the town of Nottingham where Robin Hood, Little John, and his merry-men begin their campaign against an unfair tax placed by Prince John, heir to the throne and brother of King Richard the Lion Heart who is off fighting the crusades. Although this is only one variation of the story, the general setting and characters of the tale seem to remain the same. 

Robin Hood is generally portrayed as a forest-dwelling outlaw, a nimble person, dressed in green and equipped with a bow and arrow. He is also accompanied by his band of outlaws, the "Merry Men" who steal from trade routes in the Sherwood Forest. The group consists of commoners and townsfolk, who are merely taking action on what they deem an unfair standard of living. Whether it's heroic or criminal is always up for debate. 

Little John is Robin Hood's right hand man and best friend. He's usually depicted as a very large brute man and uses a giant club or staff as his weapon of choice.

Sheriff of Nottingham is normally the main villain in the folktale, enforcer of the law, and arch-enemy of Robin Hood and his band out of outlaws. He is sometimes associated as working for Prince John, and enforcer of his cruel taxes.

Maid Marion is the love interest of Robin Hood, often depicted as a pure and innocent townswoman and a shepherdess. In some portrayals she is very courageous and even joins Robin Hood's band of outlaws.  

Friar Tuck is another companion of Robin Hood, normally depicted as a jovial minister. His character serves as the religious voice of reason. He supports Robin Hood's rebellious campaign as an act of stewardship and welfare. 

Historical References

The actual identity of Robin Hood is unknown and their's no factual description that this person did exist. However one thing is certain that the story arose from England legend, during the medieval times between the 12th and 13th century. It's very likely that Robin Hood wasn't so much a specific person, rather a group of people who were opposed to harsh taxes. Consider that this was during the crusades, most notably the third crusade where extra funds were needed to finance the military campaign of King Richard the Lionheart. It seems very plausible that these harsh impositions would lead to some dissension among the common folk. 

It's also likely than these outlaws were opponents of the unpopular King John Lackland, the brother of King Richard the Lionheart. Although John was always a likely heir to the throne, he was not appointed as regent while Richard was away for the third crusade. This infuriated John and led many to believe that Richard would not appoint him as his successor. During Richard's time away John led an unsuccessful rebellion against Richard's appointed royal stewards. 

Nonetheless after the failed rebellion, John still was able to ascend to the throne, after the death of King Richard in 1199. His 15 year reign was an aggressive overhaul of the people to only strength the monarch's power. As a result of this John had many opponents due to his harsh laws, his disputed claim to the throne, and his diplomatic tension with France. After 15 years of failed leadership, he was disposed of during the First Baron's War. His tyrannical leadership resulted in the signing of the Magna Carta, which limited the kings power and was an early precursor to the Parliament government. With this in mind it is clear to see why King John would be represented as a villain, and Robin Hood as a hero of the people. 

Literature

The first mentions of Robin Hood as a character came in various narrative poems such as Willian Langland's Piers Plowman (1370) where a priest gives praise to a character known as Robyn Hood. By the mid 1400s the tale of Robin Hood became familiar among English townsfolk. And the term Robin Hood was often used by the government to brand mischievous wrong-doers. He soon became a central character any many fictious poems and works of literature. 

The earliest surviving text came in 1450, in the ballad known as "Robin Hood and the Monk". Then came "A Gest of Robyn Hode (1475)" and "Robin Hood and the Potter (1503)" all of which were different variations of the same character. By the mid 1500s the folklore character and tradition of Robin Hood was celebrated at springtime May Day celebrations and fairs among townspeople. Even the great Shakespear made mention of this heroic character in his play "The Two Gentlemen of Verona". The concept was thus forever embedded in English culture. 

Political Significance

Although it is only a fictional folk tale, this story incites a heated debate with political significance. There's no question about it Robin Hood and his gang of merry-men are criminals. Even if their intentions are for the better good, the fact remains that they are breaking the law.  It's a similar argument that relates to vigilantism, where heroic figures like Batman take the law upon themselves to fight for justice. Fictional legends such as Batman and Robin Hood are well aware they are breaking the law, however they are doing it for a greater good of humanity and that's what makes them so poetically heroic in my opinion. It truly depends on the circumstances and the individual to decide for themselves whether this is right or wrong.

In the case of Robin Hood, there are especially political themes of economics and particularly redistribution. Robin Hood is no doubt of lower-class, and a man of the people who feels the only way justice can come about is through outlaw. Although this is only a story, the ideal within it of taking from the wealthy to give to the poor resonates with left and right economics and the basis of wealth redistribution. The left generally feels that regulation is needed to better balance income among the classes, while the right feels it should take care of itself. Once again it is open for debate, however the biggest take away the story of Robin Hood is not so much his thievery, yet rather his care for his brother. It is my opinion the government should hold the same ideals. 

Cultural Impact

The story of Robin Hood has become a worldwide phenomena, and a household tale. It's the simplicity theme that resonates with most people, of a heroic outlaw stealing from the rich and giving to the poor. Politics aside it is the stuff of romantic story-telling and for that reason it has survived a great test of time. With the introduction of movies and television, that story has been adapted and re-adapated time and time again for children and adults alike. In 1908 the first ever story of Robin Hood was introduced to the screen. Here is a list of the other very notable films and series that have followed.

• 1922: Robin Hood (Very popular silent film with Douglas Fairbanks)
• 1938: The Adventures of Robin Hood (Errol Flynn's most acclaimed role)
• 1955-1959: The Adventures of Robin Hood (Popular British TV Series)
• 1973: Walt Disney's Robin Hood (The most famous animated version)
• 1991: Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves (Modern day adventure film starring Kevin Costner)
• 1993: Robin Hood: Men in Tights (Popular comedy version of the story)
• 2006-2009: Robin Hood (BBC TV Series)
• 2010: Robin Hood (Epic adventure film starring Russell Crowe, directed by Ridley Scott)

Movie Masterpiece: Cold Mountain

This film, Cold Mountain, directed by Anthony Minghella, has been one of my favorites for some time now and I especially enjoy watching it in the falltime. It's an epic war-romance film set during the Civil War and the Siege of Petersburg. The story is based off the award winning novel by Charles Fraizer. It exceeds in every film category with every ingredient I love about a movie; from it's historical setting, it's great story, great acting, great visuals, and a great score/soundtrack. It was released in 2003, nominated for 7 academy awards, and in my opinion can truly be considered a modern classic. 

The Story

Charles Fraizer's novel incorporates the dramatic format of love in the time of crisis. This story line especially resonates with me since it's bases around a real historical crisis. Consider other successful stories such as Doctor Zhivago, Reds, Gone with the Wind, and Titanic to name a few. All romantic stories set in the backdrop of a terrible, historic event. This recipe of mixing history and romance brings forth such great insight as well as powerful drama; no doubt one of the reasons Cold Mountain is such a great catch.

The story is set in the town of Cold Mountain, North Carolina during the 1860s at the start of the Civil War. Ada moves to town with her father, the preacher, and she quickly catches the eye of a quiet woodworker, named Inman. The two have a very brief relationship consisting of short conversations yet very strong feelings for one another. Before they can take their relationship to the next level, the War breaks out, and Inman must leave to join the Confederate Army. Before he parts, the two share a very passionate kiss, and Ada tells him she will wait for him.

After several years separated by war, Ada's father dies and she begins to struggle and lose hope on her farm in Cold Mountain. She looks into a well and sees a vision of Inman returning to her that gives her hope. She writes to him begging that he pleaes come back to her. When he received the letter, Inman is also war-weary having suffered terrible injuries at the Siege of Petersburg. Knowing well that he can be executed for treason for deserting, he leaves the army to return to his love at Cold Mountain. His journey home however is a perilous and full of many obstacles (it's a theme very similar to the Odyssey, in which Odysseus journeys back to his faithful wife Penelope after the Trojan War )

Meanwhile, as Inman travels to Cold Mountain, Ada finds support on her farm from a resourceful laborer named Ruby. With Ruby's help, Ada is able to salvage her land and generate enough produce to get through the winter. However the two soon find themselves in a conundrum when they begin aiding several deserters including Ruby's father. This catches the attention of the local militia known as the Confederate Home Guard, who are keen on hunting any deserters and supporters. It appears a confrontation is inevitable between Ada and the Home Guard, however not before Inman reunites with his love at last, in perfect timing. 

Ada doesn't recognize him at first, however is then reminded of the vision she saw in the well and they embrace dearly. The two make love and have a quick marriage. They then make plans to live apart until the war ends for her safety. However before they can part, they are confronted by the home guard and a shootout takes place in the mountain. Inman is shot as he fends off the threat and tragically dies in the arms of Ada. Several years later Ada and her daughter live peacefully on the farm with Ruby and their loved ones.   

The Characters of the Film

It's especially enticing to see historical novels adapted to the screen because it gives us a chance to witness a period only known in books. The setting of this film takes us back to North Carolina of the 1860s. Anthony Minghella employs numerous techniques to establish the backdrop. It begins with scenes of the war and is contrasted by the the beautiful town of Cold Mountain, located high up in the country meadows of North Carolina. Then there's the costumes, the dialects, and the top quality acting which truly establish the period. The cast in this film is full of star-power, each actor playing a distinctive character that accentuates the flow of the story.

The character of W.P Inman is a shy and quiet country worker, true to his southern ways yet also a hopeless romantic at heart. This portrayal by British actor, Jude Law, was very emotional and won him an Oscar nomination. He says very little in the film, however his expressions and emotions are quite convincing throughout the film.

The character of Ada Monroe is the cliche country belle, daughter of the preacher, who must endure a terrible conflict. She falls for Inman all too naturally and is then separated from him before they can get to know one another. She then loses her father as well as her slaves and must survive on a farm without any labor experience. Ncole Kidman does an excellent job in bringing her charm and passion to this character. 

One of the favorite, most lovable characters of the film is no doubt Ruby, a homeless farmer, who comes to Ada's help in a dire time. She is spunky as she is resourceful and just the motivation and companionship Ada needed to salvage her land. This entertaining character won actress Renee Zellweger her first Academy Award. 

Ada's father, Reverend Monroe is played by Donald Sutherland. He is a peaceful character filled with the spirit of God, against the war, and very grateful for the companionship of his daughter. His departure from the story is Ada's turning point.

The characters of Sally and Esco befriend Ada at Cold Mountain and offer her support until they are discovered for harboring their deserting children. They are played by Kathy Baker and James Gammon.

The father of Ruby is also a very enjoyable character played by Brendan Gleeson. He is a Confederate deserter, who treated his daughter poorly before the war however eager to make amends with her. He convinces her that he is a changed man through his new found love of the fiddle.

The antagonist of the film, is Teague, captain of the Home Guard who has his eyes set on Ada as well as her land. He is a cruel sadistic villain, played by Ray Winstone, who shows no mercy towards deserters. 

Other notable characters Inman meets along his trail are an immoral priest played by Philip Seymour Hoffman, a whisky brewer who shelters and betrays him played by Giovanni Ribisi, and a widowed woman who shelters Inman, played by Natalie Portman. 

Historical Look: The Battle of the Crater

Although the story is set during the Civil War, it can hardly be considered a war film and is much rather a romantic drama. There is one great battle at the beginning (The Siege of Petersburg) and several skirmishes with Union soldiers and Confederate Home Guards throughout Inamn's journey. It's fair to say the war in this story is used primarily as a barrier between Ada and Inman. Nonetheless it still provides juicy historical insight to this bloodiest war on American soil. The opening scenes of the Battle of the Crater are quite surreal.

In June of 1864, the Siege of Petersburg was one of the final major campaigns of the Civil War. The siege was initiated by the Union Army under the command of General Ulysses S. Grant and Ambroise Burnside at the city of Petersburg, Virginia. They were met by a defiant Confederate force led by Robert E. Lee and William Mahone. It was a very drawn out siege, 9 nine months of trench warfare extending over 30 miles from Richmond to Petersburg. One of the first major confrontations of this siege was the Battle of the Crater, considered by many the most catastrophic battles of the war.

The battle unfolded on July 30th of 1864 under the command of Gen Ambroise Burnside. The Union plan was to pierce the Confederate lines through a major explosion within a mine. However after the explosion, the Union soldier's charged themselves into a crater in the ground, where they found themselves trapped and cornered. At that point the advantage quickly turned to the Confederate's favor. Gen. William Mahone lead a counter-attack on the confused Union soldiers in what has been labeled as a "turkey shot". The casualties were very high for the Union army and a total embarrassment for Gen Ambroise who resigned as a result of this disastrous defeat.

Musical Look: Bluegrass and Fiddle

One of the defining characteristics of this film is it's original folk soundtrack. It was produced by T Bone Burnett (who also did O Brother Where Art Tho) and features tracks from several famed musicians such as Jack White, Alison Krauss, Elvis Costello, and Sting. There's also an original score to the film, composed by Gabriel Yaread, (The English Patient, The Talented Mr. Ripley) which was nominated for an Oscar. One of my favorites melodies in the film is the piano composition of "Ada Plays." There were also two songs in the film nominated for Oscars; "Scarlet Tide" and "You Will Be My Ain True Love". 

This soundtrack does an incredible job of driving the mood in this 1860's war/love story. It incorporates elements of bluegrass, gospel, blues, country, and folk music. This type of music is usually not my preference, (especially country) however I do enjoy folk rock and cultural music. Over the years I have begun to admire the fiddle and bluegrass for  unique cultural sound, especially come fall time. Some of the fiddle tracks I especially enjoy in the film are "Ruby with the Eyes that Sparkle" and "Great High Mountain".

Another unique musical element of this soundtrack is it's Christian Choral pieces by the Sacred Harp of Liberty Church. This song inclusion is no doubt a historical reference to the protestant influence of the 1800s. In the film, the town of Cold Mountain is very united in their church and this is demonstrated by their a-cappella worship songs. One in particular that riles the emotions is "I'm Going Home" performed in great harmony before the news of the Civil War breaks. Whether you prefer christian, gospel, or catholic music, one can't deny the powerful lyrics and melody of this tune. 

Here is a full list of the movie's soundtrack: 

1. Wayfaring Stranger - Jack White

2. Like A Songbird That Has Fallen - Reeltime Travelers

3. I Wish My Baby Was Born - Tim Eriksen, Riley Baugus & Tim O'Brien

4. The Scarlet Tide - Alison Krauss

5. The Cuckoo - Tim Eriksen & Riley Baugus

6. Sittin' On Top Of The World - Jack White

7. Am I Born To Die? - Tim Eriksen

8. You Will Be My Ain True Love - Alison Krauss

9. I'm Going Home - Sacred Harp Singers At Liberty Church

10. Never Far Away - Jack White

11. Christmas Time Will Soon Be Over - Jack White

12. Ruby With The Eyes That Sparkle - Stuart Duncan & Dirk Powell

13. Lady Margret - Cassie Franklin

14. Great High Mountain - Jack White

15. Anthem - Gabriel Yared

16. Ada Plays - Gabriel Yared

17. Ada And Inman - Gabriel Yared

18. Love Theme - Gabriel Yared

19. Idumea - Sacred Harp Singers At Liberty Church

Kansas City Vacation

Had a great fall vacation to visit Marc and Laura in Kansas City. The trip was planned back in the springtime when Marc came to Indy to partake in the annual running of the Indy Mini. He asked that I come to partake in the Kansas City Half Marathon and I gladly accepted the invite. I've been long overdue for a good roadtrip and a vacation, as well as a visit to Marc and Laura's home. They visit us in Indiana or Michigan at least once or twice a year so it was my turn to make the trip. And I can honestly say that it was well worth the trip, a perfect memorable weekend.

I last visited Marc and Laura in 2007 when I was working a sportvision gig for the Kansas City Chiefs. I remember it was my first official job with them and I was nervous however also excited to experience a new city. I also took advantage of the job to drop in on Marc and Laura who were living in Emporia at the time. Ever since they have moved three more times and are currently located at Lawrence, KS. Marc gets moved around alot with his job at Colgate, however they have stayed within the Kansas City district for almost 10 years now. 

The Road Trip

So I took 3 days off of work and hit the road Friday afternoon. It was a long 8 hour drive from Indianapolis to Lawrence, KS, however I was ready for the long haul. 2 years of courier work turned me into quite the road warrior. I also made several new cds for the trip (Jazz, blues, folk, classic rock, movie soundtracks, etc) Luckily I picked up an hour on the switch from Eastern to Central time and arrived about 9pm local time to their house. I was warmly invited with a good pasta dinner, and caught up for a bit. I lasted maybe an hour until it was time to hit the hay. I slept hard that night after the long drive.

KC Half Marathon

The next morning we woke up about 5:15 am to make our way to the race. Unfortunately Marc couldn't run with me, since he had hurt his knee in a basketball game. He was going to be my point-man however which was a very good help. We picked up our packets, found parking, and made our way to the coral. The race started at 7:05am and the weather was a bit brisk, however I still decided to run in my shirt and shorts. Marc stayed by my side all the way till the start, and I was able to lose my warm-ups just before the gun went off. I was feeling good that morning and knew I could run a good time.

The first few miles were actually quite hilly as we ran through the city and through a campus. We ran through some scenic districts and the support was great. It was also quite exciting to notice the Royals fever everywhere as their team had made it to the World Series for the first time since 1985. By about mile 7 or 8 I was beginning to wonder how long my body would hold up after all those hills, however I hung on. By about mile 9 something very unusual happened, I caught a 3rd wind at the point where I usually begin to shut down. This could have been due to the fact that the last 3 miles were slightly downhill. I found myself maintaining my 7:30 mile pace, and finished strong for the first time ever. I thus finished with a PR of 1.38.12. I was very happy with this time and felt the trip had already been a success.   

College Basketball Experience

However the weekend was only starting after the race and there still was so much to do. Marc had worked out a busy itinerary to take in the most of Kansas City as possible (I requested that he send me off with the full KC experience, and he did just that). Straight after the race I changed clothes and we walked around downtown for a bit to stretch out the legs. 

We then went to a college basketball museum, which was somewhat of an interactive experience. As sore as I was from the mini, I was working another sweat within minutes shooting baskets, slam dunks, etc. We have shot some videos of us sportscasting which was pretty fun. I'm not a huge fan of college basketball but it was a fun experience, and I walked away all the more excited for the IU basketball season to start up. 

Oklahoma Joe's Barbecue

After the College Basketball museum we got in the car and drove to get some lunch. Marc wanted to take me to this dive he went, which was connected to a gas station. The place was called Oklahoma Joe's and when we got there around 11:30, there was already a line to get in. We waited for about an hour in line to get some barbecue, and it was very worth the wait. I ordered a pulled pork sandwich, some burnt ends, spicy coleslaw, and beans. We also got some beer. It was without question the best barbecue I had ever eaten.

We finally got home by around 2:30 just in time to catch the IU vs MSU game,. I took a good shower and was hoping to rest the body and maybe take a nap at this point, however there was no such thing once the kids were up. Brett and Gabby were ready to play along and I decided to dig deep and catch another wind. I brought both of them little toys, a doll for Gabby, and a Star Wars action figure for Brett. We then played outside, swinging, football, and soccer. We also played some fuseball and drank some beers in the basement for a while.

Late Night Jazz and Blues

That evening, Marc and I set off on the 2nd phase of our day to Kansas City, to take in some nightlife. We first went to a blues bar called the Big Easy. The place was shoulder, however still a fun atmosphere. I ordered a hamburger and some fries, Marc got a pasta. We had several beers, listened to the live blues music as well as watched the Notre Dame- Florida State game. 

After a couple hours there, we then went to a jazz bar across the street called the Blue Room. Unfortunately we were only able to catch a couple songs before the band went on break, however it was still a very entertaining show. After a couple beers, we were both very tired and decided to head home for the night by 11ish.  

Detroit Lions Comeback Win

The next morning we went to the 10am mass with Laura, Brett, and Gabby. Afterwards we took a tour of Kansas University home of the famous basketball Jayhawks. Marc got his masters degree at the university and yet Laura was our tour guide through the campus. We then rushed home to catch the Saints-Lions game. Luckily they had the NFL Sunday ticket and were able to get the game there. 

Brett and I wore our Lions jerseys and we all watched a very dramatic game while drinking beers and eating quesadillas. Just as I had begun to accept the game was out of reach, the Lions began to pull a miraculous comeback. With less then 4 minutes to go, then came back from a 13 pt deficit to win the game. Marc and I were ecstatic after witnessing such an exciting comeback victory. I was so thrilled with the weekend it had been.

Art Museum and Spanish Plaza

That evening we returned for a third time to Kansas City this time with the whole family. Laura was our driver as we first stopped at the KC Art Museum. This was my first time in an art museum in quite while and was cool to see some numerous gems from Caravaggio, Claude Monet, and Picasso. We only had about an hour however before the museum shut down.

We then played outside with the kids for a while outside the lawn of the museum. Afterwards we walked through the very ritzy Country Club plaza, which I had wanted to see after running through it on Saturday morning. The plaza was heavily influenced by Spanish architecture and was a very hopping scene full or restaurants and shops. We walked around for a while and then returned home by around 8ish. 

That evening we ordered some food to go, and Marc helped me do some car work. I replaced my bulbs, filled up my gas tank, and put some air in the tires. We then watched the rest of the Broncos-49ers game, and played fuseball until 2am. Marc would constantly beat me, however I was able to hang with him and even won several games. I really would like to get my own fuse-ball table eventually.

It was the perfect ending to the weekend as we listened to music, drank beer, and engaging in the competitive game. It reminded me of the old days when we were young kids playing all sorts of competitive games. Marc also gave me a thumb-drive of all the pictures we had taken through out the weekend. That night I crashed hard once again. 

Road Trip Home

The next morning I packed up early and had a quick breakfast burrito before I hit the road. The whole family was there to see me off, and I was very grateful for the memorable weekend. I told them it was a perfect one, and they had been such great hosts. I hope to visit more often, maybe not next year, but perhaps in a couple. On my way home I made I stopped to visit a very good friend in Hannibal, MO. She showed me around the historic town of Mark Twain as well as a great view of the mighty Mississippi River. It was also an unforgettable experience, and the perfect icing to the perfect weekend. I got home late Monday night and went straight to bed. I was very grateful the vacation was a success and also very happy to be home again.