England, late 12th century. King Richard the Lion-Hearted, back from the Crusades, has been taken prisoner at Durensteien Castle in Austria. His chances of escaping are slim; his ransom, exorbitant. In his absence, his brother, Prince John, has taken over the throne with the help of some powerful Norman barons.

Birthof a legend. Following King Richards death in France, archer RobinLongstride, along with Will Scarlett, Alan-a-Dale and Little John,returns to England. They encounter the dying Robert of Locksley, whoseparty was ambushed by treacherous Godfrey, who hopes to facilitate aFrench invasion of England. Robin promises the dying knight he willreturn his sword to his father Walter in Nottingham. Here Walterencourages him to impersonate the dead man to prevent his land beingconfiscated by the crown, and he finds himself with Marian, a ready-madewife. Hoping to stir baronial opposition to weak King John and allow aneasy French take-over, Godfrey worms his way into the kings service asEarl Marshal of England and brutally invades towns under the pretext ofcollecting Royal taxes. Can Robin navigate the politics of barons,royals, traitors, and the French

History Channel - The Real Robin Hood (2010)

The Real Robin Hood The marauding mercenary of English folklore is one of history's best-known tales, and the legend of Robin Hood is the inspiration for more movies, radio and TV programs than any other folk hero. But the image of a hero in tights and a feathered cap is a somewhat recent addition to the myth. In reality, Robin Hood is a composite of several historical figures whose exploits date back to the age of the Crusades. In the film Robin Hood, starring Russell Crowe, director Ridley Scott's production is based on the most solid and recent historical research into the character and promises a startlingly fresh interpretation of Robin Hood for a new generation. This special will distinguish between historical evidence and Hollywood fiction, and seek to create a realistic portrait of the mythical hero. Includes clips from the film as well as interviews with director Scott, principal Robin Hood cast members and renowned historians.

Birth of a legend. Following King Richards death in France, archer Robin Longstride, along with Will Scarlett, Alan-a-Dale and Little John, returns to England. They encounter the dying Robert of Locksley, whose party was ambushed by treacherous Godfrey, who hopes to facilitate a French invasion of England. Robin promises the dying knight he will return his sword to his father Walter in Nottingham. Here Walter encourages him to impersonate the dead man to prevent his land being confiscated by the crown, and he finds himself with Marian, a ready-made wife. Hoping to stir baronial opposition to weak King John and allow an easy French take-over, Godfrey worms his way into the kings service as Earl Marshal of England and brutally invades towns under the pretext of collecting Royal taxes. Can Robin navigate the politics of barons, royals, traitors, and the French?

Thestandard story of Robin Hood: Evil Prince John is oppressing the peoplewhile good King Richard is away on the Crusades. Robin steals from thetax collectors, wins an archery contest, defeats the Sheriff, andrescues Maid Marian. In this version, however, Mel Brooks adds his ownpersonal touch, parodying traditional adventure films, romance films,and the whole idea of men running around the woods in tights.

The standard story of Robin Hood: Evil Prince John is oppressing the people while good King Richard is away on the Crusades. Robin steals from the tax collectors, wins an archery contest, defeats the Sheriff, and rescues Maid Marian. In this version, however, Mel Brooks adds his own personal touch, parodying traditional adventure films, romance films, and the whole idea of men running around the woods in tights.

The standard story of Robin Hood: Evil Prince John is oppressing the people while good King Richard is away on the Crusades. Robin steals from the tax collectors, wins an archery contest, defeats the Sheriff, and rescues Maid Marian. In this version, however, Mel Brooks adds his own personal touch, parodying traditional adventure films, romance films, and the whole idea of men running around the woods in tights.

In 13th century England, Robin and his band of marauders confront corruption in a local village and lead an uprising against the crown that will forever alter the balance of world power.

The English Middle Ages saw the construction of some of the worlds greatest buildings, structures that still shape our towns, cities and countryside and mould our national identity. These four lectures give a controversial new view of how medieval England was built starting with the departure of the Romans and ending with the Reformation. Lectures given by Dr Simon Thurley at the Museum of London.

A special about the origins of the English folk hero.

England, in 1190 the year of our Lord. The darkest period of the British Middle Ages. King Richard the Lionheart fought in the Crusade to liberate the Holy Land from the infidels. Know, headed by Prince John Landless remaining to look after the procedure in the country, holding simple peasants in a tight rein, squeezing out every last drop them by force of arms, and holding them in check. Only one man dared to challenge the tyranny, leading a small group of outcasts. The people know it as Robin Hood.