What is the signifcance of Robin Hood as an outlaw -- a person declared legally dead -- who lives in the greenwood, where life is constantly renewed?  Why does Shakespeare heavily allude to Robin in his Henry IV plays?  And most significantly, was there a real Robin Hood, or is he a pure creation of myth and folklore?  We consider the possibilities and scrutinize the evidence.

Suggested further reading: Maurice Keen, "The Outlaws of Medieval Legend"; J. C. Holt, "Robin Hood"; A. J. Pollard, "Imagining Robin Hood."