It's not often that I (knowingly) review the same thing twice, but today's book was first covered two years ago (review here). This time, it's a newer edition, and I have a newer perspective, being now more well-read on the subject. I thus wanted to revisit this.
In Robin Hood, professor J.C. Holt tries to separate history from legend and determine who the original Robin may have been. He looks at the five original ballads, historical persons of interest who may have been Robin (or contributed to his legend), relevant locations and their influence, the various audiences who have listened to the tales (and perhaps inspired elements through popular demand), and later elements that morphed the tales into its present form. Check the original review for more details.
Holt's main update in this edition nails down that Robin Hood tales existed (and were widely known) no later than 1260. This eliminates the possibility that he originated in 1320 (as some tales and historians have suggested)- the legend was in place decades before. While it's still all but impossible to nail down anything else- who he may have been, where he may have roamed, what causes (if any) he championed- at least we know something.
I appreciated this work more the second time (and edition) through. Holt knows his stuff and has a pretty good delivery (though some comments could be more clear). This book, combined with Stephen Knight's treatment (review here) are good resources for fans of Robin. A summary of the "who/when/where/what" possibilities for him can be viewed on my post here, and see here for a list of Robin Hood reading suggestions.
Rating: A-
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