Which legend describes an English rebel who lives in the forest and robs the wealthy and gives to the poor?

Among the many legends, ballads, stories and subsequent books, made into numerous film versions, is the legend of Robin Hood. He has proven to be one of the most popular and enduring culture heroes, enjoyed by children and adults alike.

Over the course of 700 years, the outlaw from Nottinghamshire who robs from the wealthy and gives to the poor, has emerged as one of the most versatile characters.

Documented evidence reflects Christian revelers in certain parts of England celebrated May Day with plays and games involving a legendary Robin Hood as early as the 15th century.

In the 19th century, the American illustrator and author Howard Pyle (1853-1911), adapted this traditional tale for children, popularizing the story in the United States and around the world.

In 14th-century England, when agrarian discontent had begun to chip away at the feudal system, a character type of Robin Hood appeared as an anti-establishment rebel who murders government agents and wealthy landowners.

Meanwhile, academics have combined the historical record for evidence of a real person. English legal records suggest that as early as the 13th century “Robehod”, “Rabunhod” and other variations had become common epithets for criminals.

The first literary reference to Robin Hood appeared in a series of 14th and 15th- century ballads about a violent rebel who lived in Sherwood Forest with his men and frequently clashed with the Sheriff of Nottingham.