Adventures in Literature, Wednesday, Period Three [Class Two]

Sep 09, 2009 01:25

"Today we're going to look at the classic tale of Robin Hood," Drake began after the students had arrived. "No one is sure if he was based on an actual historical figure or not, but one of the earliest reference to Robin Hood occurs in William Langland's poem Piers Plowman in the 14th century: 'I kan not parfitly my Paternoster as the preest it singeth,/ But I kan rymes of Robyn Hood.'" Drake blinked and looked at the text. "I never realized how much Old English sounds like LOLCat," he mused.

He snapped his fingers and an old fashioned projector and screen appeared. Several clips of Robin Hood from movies and tv shows played as he continued to lecture. "Robin Hood is an archetypal figure in English folklore, originating from medieval times but remaining significant in popular culture, where he is painted as a man known for robbing the rich to give to the poor and fighting against injustice and tyranny," he said. "He believed in himself and also loved the thrill of the fight. And despite the threat of imminent death, he found love with his dear Maid Marian."

He snapped his fingers again, changing himself into Robin Hood. The students all became garbed in the outfits of Robin's band of Merry Men . . . well, and Women, except Francine, who suddenly had on a long medieval dress and long red hair due to the luck of the RNG. "So what aspect of the legend do you find most interesting?" Drake asked. "And what do you think Robin Hood would do in today's world? When we're done with the discussion, if you want to play in Robin Hood's world, I've got a few things set up for you." Danger Shop? Who needed it?

[ Syllabus | Class Roster]

literature

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