Legends of Caratacos
In which I look at the legacy of the ancient British resistance leader in later folklore, romance, and drama. Content note: child...
Matter of the Greenwood: Guy of Gisburne
Content note: violence including mutilation. Image: Paul Dickey as Sir Guy in the 1922 film Robin Hood. In modern times, Guy of Gisborne...
Hamlet's voyage
Content note: familial murder and attempted murder; bigamy. "Thus set it down," decrees Claudius of his wayward nephew in Hamlet: "he...
Matter of the Greenwood: The Sheriff of Nottingham - Evolution
We’ve looked at the possible historical origins of Robin Hood’s archenemy. What about his evolution in fiction? N.B. this post has been...
Cymbeline and Snow White
Content note: murder; attempted murder (including familial and spousal); violent jealousy; rape. NB: This post has been edited since it...
Matter of the Greenwood: Friar Tuck - Origins
I examine the literary, folkloric, and perhaps historical origins of one of the most iconic characters in the Robin Hood mythos. Image: a...
Matter of the Greenwood: Maid Marian - Evolution
In the second part of my piece on Marian, I investigate how her legend has evolved down to the present day. Image: Bernadette O'Farrell...
Matter of the Greenwood: Maid Marian - Origins
An investigation into the roots of Marian's role in the Robin Hood legend. Content note: sexual harrassment; abduction. Image: tomb...
