Legends

Legends are stories about historical figures which have become part of a group's cultural history. Legends are not usually set in the supernatural and may have actually occurred. Two examples of legends can be found in the infamous story of Robin Hood and an old Welsh legend about a historical land that is destroyed. These legends have been repeated countless times by which they have become famous and a part of their nation’s history. These legends are typical examples of the ‘legend’ style of literature and share much in common with each other, but with a few notable differences. 

Robin Hood tells a story about a hero who steals from the rich and gives to the poor (Simeone 265). It can be classified as a legend because it is about a person who was an actual historical figure. The events in the story could have really happened as there are no supernatural elements to the story. The Welsh legend is about a town that was below sea level which was protected by its townspeople who would repair a wall whenever they heard the bells ring. One night, after drinking and celebrating, only one man saw the damage to the wall and was able to save the princess and flee the flood. This story could also be classified as a legend as it is about a historical figure who becomes a hero figure by saving the princess. This story also could have actually occurred as there were no supernatural elements. The wall could have been destroyed by sea waters and a mighty storm which engulfed the town.

The two legends do have some differences as well. The Robin Hood legend has a clear protagonist throughout the legend and he has become a household name, same as the heroes in Norse mythology. The Welsh legend is less famous and does not have a clear protagonist throughout the story as it features a King, a Prince, and then eventually one of the watchmen who becomes the hero of the legend. Robin Hood also has a happier ending as the Sheriff is hung and Robin Hood’s men are freed. Although the Welsh legend ends happily for the watchmen, the whole town disappears and the townspeople die. Robin Hood also has a clear moral about helping the poor while the Welsh legend appears to have no clear moral.

Work Cited

Simeone, William E. "The May Games and the Robin Hood Legend." The Journal of American Folklore, vol. 64 no .253, 1951, pp. 265-274.