The Merry Adventures of Robin Hood

“Great changes” take place in England with the death of King Henry and the accession of King Richard the Lionhearted. Meanwhile, life goes on as usual for Robin Hood and the Merry Men—although Robin is now “less bold in his comings and goings” (283). 

One day, Robin and Little John go out separately in search of adventure. Robin comes across Guy of Gisbourne, a fierce and widely hated outlaw, dressed in animal hides and heavily armed. He explains that the Bishop of Herefordshire and the Sheriff of Nottingham have sent him to capture Robin Hood in exchange for a pardon. The two engage in an archery match, after which Robin reveals his identity. They now have a fierce swordfight, and Robin kills Guy. Robin dons Guy’s clothes and sets out to pay a surprise visit to the Sheriff.

Meanwhile, Little John helps a poor old woman whose sons are to be hanged for hunting and killing deer on the king’s property. Donning a disguise as “Gilles Hobble,” he unties the sons as the Sheriff of Nottingham is about to hang them. As he attempts to escape, Little John’s