Gallant tales, for hundreds of years, have sung my ancestor's praise. Days when "robbing from the rich to give to the poor" were acts of bravery from one lone sage. Hence, every Christmas grandfather would bring out the ancient book, legends handed down of renowned kings. My life was filled with golden days and adventure 'with wonder' for what those stories did bring. We'd sit by the fireside, grandfather and I, after others had gone to bed. This was my favourite tradition, and I'd listen carefully to every word he said.1
(Our story begins)2
Far away and legends ago, where knights, battles, and loves, were won, there lived in the land of Nottingham Lord Huntingdon "a favoured and chivalrous one." Now it happened in the days of King William, The Lion, that the king's brother "Lord Huntingdon" became discomforted by the taxes and looting carried out against the commoners. This Lordly prince was one of the few to identify with the people of the land; he was just daring enough to try and change things. Although, some say stories are frames between facts and legends retold. 3
Yet never a hero captured the hearts of people, for over 700 years this story has been bound in gold.4
When the outcries of injustice rose loud and clear, Twas said that one brave man arose to fight and bring hope to day's darkest night. Disguised as Robin Hood, his thievery was of hearts and villains, enlightening them to understand "humours profound reality." His true identity was hid while conversing on the enemy's side; nary a one- suspected that it was the Earl of Huntingdon who rode for Victory's tide. There never was a man so jolly, and clever, who could outshoot any man alive "as he." 5
Among the commoners, royals and kin, He was highly regarded but none knew him as a swashbuckling adventurer, in their normal reality. Tales were told, written and sung, as if woven in tapestry of earth-tone colours in variegated silks for fun. Robin Hood was a tenant of the Archbishop of York in Henry III's time, and he was also summoned before York Assizes around twelve twenty-five. 6
Perhaps, to many, the real identity of Robin Hood will remain as elusive as the legendary outlaw himself. One thing is sure, people never tire of the Sherwood Forest tales where good triumphed over evil. This rebel fought for a righteous cause, though it was his Charismatic nature that formed an army to revel. 7
Call it thievery if you must, but this crusader actually took-back what was "wrongly taken" from the start; thus restoring peace and harmony to the land. Inspiring bravery and humour, he elevated the poor and lost to a finer state with comradery grand.8
Silence is good when silence is needed; Robin listened to the counsel of Littlejohn and Fryer when they wisely pleaded; and won the heart of his truelove "Matilda of Kevelioc," the most beautiful countess so grand. The Lord (Sir Earl) of Huntingdon had no wish to spar with his brother the king, over trifles; but to take what was just, for the people's needy hand. For kings come quite ill advised when parents fall short, to lead and to guide. Robin grew-up near Sherwood Forest, wandering and exploring, he learned tactics to survive. 9
Long, since time, have stories been told from facts recorded, while scribes and genealogists sort through these to recover what's been wrong. Consequently, my facts have wavered some form the original glory. Yet I tell you, truly, that "Lord Earl of Huntingdon is my ancestor" known from ancient tales sung. Many heroes were oft' masked, in one way or another, and their true identify lost or seldom revealed, "lest lavished by parchment wonder." Contrary to legend's glamour, this "true tale" I leave with you. Thus, try to remember that some ancient stories aren't just fiction. This one, while handed down from generations past, is most aptly recorded and emphatically true. 10
Author notes
David Scott De Pîtres Huntington* born in Huntingdon, Huntingdonshire, ENG died 17 Jun 1219 in Roxburghshire, Scotland and married Matilida/Matilda "Maud" D'Keveliock' De Meschines who was born 1163.
David was a brother of King William "The Lion," whose parents were: Henry Dunkeld De Huntington and Adelaide 'Ada' De Warrene.
www.whosyomama.com/gabroaddrick3/20537.htm
www.whosyomama.com/gabroaddrick3/7020.htm
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_I_of_Scotland
There are Robin Hood elements to the career of the real earl of Huntingdon. His name was David, brother to William the Lion, king of Scotland. For nearly 30 years, Earl David was next in line for the Scotland's throne. Earl David was the direct ancestor of the Kings of Scotland. He held many lands in both Scotland and England. He was a very important figure in Anglo-Scotland diplomacy; and details of Earl David's life are well chronicled and collected in Earl David of Huntingdon 1152-1219 with "A Study in Anglo-Scotland History" by K.J. Stringer, of Edinburgh University Press, 1985. Most of the details that follow are from that book.
In 1212, Earl David was accused as being part of a plot to assassinate King John. David's role was not proven in this affair. But one of the men behind this conspiracy was Robert Fitzwalter, father of the Matilda who was Marian in Munday's plays.
And later still Earl David was part of a rebellion against his king. Forced on by his nephew Alexander, the current king of Scotland, he sided against King John in the baron's conflict between 1215-16. In Nov. 1215, the king's men started seizing Earl David's lands.
www.boldoutlaw.com/realrob/realrob2.html
(Famous old prints) www.planetfusion.co.uk/~pignut/guy.html
Trees of Sherwood: www.boldoutlaw.com/images/sher1.jpg
www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/robinhoodfestival/themes/robinhood/
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Comments
1 - 8 of 8
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My dear friend, this is an awesome piece of poetry and a fabulous story! You amaze me with your fine writing talents and I hope you continue your writing!
Thanks for sharing; this is brilliant!!!
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Awesomely, awesomely written piece this is! We very much enjoyed the reading of this! Wow! Extremely well done!
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This is such an excellent piece! Your writing is truly wonderful, it makes you feel as if you were in the story yourself. I also agree with what Cassa said. I would have loved living in that time myself, but then again I would not because of what I know now.
Anyway, once again, excellent piece! ^-^
~Rei-chan
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You have done an excellent writing here. I have always been fascinated by stories of Robin Hood with chivalry and romance. Seems like such an awesome time to have lived, yet would not want to be there knowing what I know now.
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Thank you, BonnieQ, for such a positive critique. Please let me know where the minor problems are and I shall be glad to correct them. Heather and I have given it the twice over but many things escapes our eye.
Warm regards, love, ~Milly *~
P.S. – From this particular genealogy line, there are many threads of related kin; and although it’s not been proven as such, there’s enough record facts, which correlate to the stories of Robin Hood, that many believe it to be the case. Thanks again for your gracious help and eloquent input.
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Wonderfully Told
I think everyone loved the tales of Robin Hood; however, Milly, you have managed to make it personal as well as even more elegant with your talented quill. While this piece is exquisitely written, I do suggest you do one more edit for a couple of minor problems. Otherwise, this is wonderful, insightful and informative.
Lots of love and hugs, B♥nnieQ
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Oh, Beth, how very good to hear from you- especially at this time. Although I felt we had many things in common, and now this; for Robin Hood is also one of my favourites, as well. Thank you for your continued "bright and cheerful support," dear one.
Love and deepest regards, ~*Milly *~.
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WOW... This is an awesome insight to "Robin Hood"... That is and always will be my favorite disney movie... I really appreciate you writing this!!!
Hugs,
Beth
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