Feeling The Myth

Now, there have been many tales told of robbers, thieves, highwaymen and bush-rangers which have, despite the actual subject (the illegal behaviour) have had their names fall into the categories of ‘Legends’, ‘Myths’ and folklore, essential to the many societies they were a part of. Or more accurately, not a part of. Yet there often was a certain dominant theme with those that survived into lore. Their back ground and personal histories. Some, such as Ned Kelly (here in Australia), the armour wearing robber (what he became most famous for) were victims of social situation and prejudice. There is no denying that he and his family did wrong, but much of what they were blamed for at the time appears to have been false, and so his persecution was up to a point, unjust. What he decided to do after that however, and where he passes into dominant status in folklore of Australia, was his choice. Some names, while romanticised by writers of the times or later, portrayed as highwaymen cannot claim the same privilege of social poverty and unfair treatment. Dick Turpin of England being a classic example. Choices made to pursue the life of crime. There seems very few societies, that have not at some stage raised actually criminal and bad persons to great status, despite their illegal doings. At the time many feared them, but later they are almost regarded with fondness.

One such classic name, whether he did actually exist as portrayed or not, has survived because of the enduring theme he raises in the conscious minds of societies. Robin Hood. I grew up with the versions of a betrayed nobleman, returning to his homeland after many years imprisonment, to find the ‘spirit’ of the country devastated by years of Feudal mistreatment and unfair royal demands by both State and Church. The reason for his imprisonment in itself should be questioned, as he had gone on a crusade, at the command of his king, to challenge the power of another religion, in another country (boy, does this sound current or what?). However, on his return home, he discovers his father has been murdered by jealous lords and his property taken. He turns his back on both the royal order and takes sides with the average suffering citizen. Now here is where the folklore takes power. He then, according to popular myth) ‘Steals from the rich…. To give to the poor’.

What a guy! What a great tale to unite the masses. This poor de-possessed Lord, is able to win favour with the masses, by stealing the riches of the few, and supposedly distributing it to the poor masses. Wouldn’t that be noticed? I mean if someone suddenly was given gold and coins, they couldn’t account for…. Wouldn’t that draw attention and probably punishment from the ruling classes? And speaking of myths and legends, think back further (and given the time of year), wouldn’t it have been difficult for Joseph and Mary to have got rid of the gold given by the three wise men, without the Romans asking a few questions about where they got it? Just asking.

(Continued tomorrow)