Event Title
The Reality of Ridley Scott's Robin Hood
Presentation Type
Oral and/or Visual Presentation
Presenter Major(s)
History, Art History
Mentor Information
Alice Chapman
Department
History
Location
Kirkhof Center 2270
Start Date
10-4-2013 12:00 AM
End Date
10-4-2013 12:00 AM
Keywords
Historical Perspectives, Media
Abstract
This paper examines the historical accuracy of parts of Ridley Scott's Robin Hood. Historical films are never completely accurate, but some film makers do a better job than others of incorporating factual elements into their narratives. There are no sources from the 12-13th centuries, which would be contemporary for a Robin Hood figure, but there are later sources, such as ballads and poems from the 15-16th centuries. These provide a glimpse into the past. This study investigates the myth of the Robin Hood in historical literature, attempting to shed light upon the main characters of the film, examining the storyline behind King Richard's death during the Crusades, and the narrative of King John's reign and events leading to the signing of the Magna Carta. There are many aspects of this film that do not line up exactly with existing historical material, but Ridley Scott's Robin Hood weaves this popular literary hero into a convincing historical milieu.
The Reality of Ridley Scott's Robin Hood
Kirkhof Center 2270
This paper examines the historical accuracy of parts of Ridley Scott's Robin Hood. Historical films are never completely accurate, but some film makers do a better job than others of incorporating factual elements into their narratives. There are no sources from the 12-13th centuries, which would be contemporary for a Robin Hood figure, but there are later sources, such as ballads and poems from the 15-16th centuries. These provide a glimpse into the past. This study investigates the myth of the Robin Hood in historical literature, attempting to shed light upon the main characters of the film, examining the storyline behind King Richard's death during the Crusades, and the narrative of King John's reign and events leading to the signing of the Magna Carta. There are many aspects of this film that do not line up exactly with existing historical material, but Ridley Scott's Robin Hood weaves this popular literary hero into a convincing historical milieu.