The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

10148

Title

The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Howard Pyle's whimsical retelling of the classic outlaw legend, blending historical figures with folkloric charm. This edition features vibrant illustrations and a narrative that balances mirth with the tragic end of Robin Hood's journey, appealing to readers who enjoy adventurous tales with a touch of historical fantasy.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in merry England under King Henry II, Howard Pyle's *The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood* introduces the legendary yeoman and skilled archer who becomes an outlaw after killing a forester during a shooting match. Following this act, Robin gathers a band of fifty or more outcasts in Sherwood Forest, swearing to protect the poor and punish oppressors like the Sheriff of Nottingham. The narrative follows their adventures, including a clever resolution to a failed marriage arrangement involving Allan a Dale and the Bishop of Hereford, where Robin resolves the conflict by providing a dowry and performing the ceremony himself. Later, Robin aids a sorrowful knight, Sir Richard of the Lea, who is revealed to be the rightful Earl of Huntingdon. After a fierce battle against King John's forces, Robin falls ill. Betrayed by his cousin, the Prioress of Kirklees, who attempts to bleed him to death, he is rescued by his loyal companion Little John. Despite the betrayal, Robin dies peacefully, asking to be buried facing the East. Little John destroys the nunnery in grief before leading the band away. The tale concludes with an inscription marking Robin's death in 1247, celebrating his legacy as a beloved figure who lived by a code of justice and mercy. Pyle's text employs a whimsical, colorful tone, presenting historical figures like Henry II and Richard the Lionheart alongside knights, priests, and yeomen living a life of mirth and adventure. The story emphasizes themes of loyalty, the protection of the weak against the powerful, and the enduring spirit of the outlaw who, though cast out by the law, remains beloved by the common people.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/10148.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg10148.epub

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2026-06-30 07:12 UTC

Categories

• Adventure
• Folklore