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Symbols are objects, characters, figures, or colors used to represent abstract ideas or concepts.

Sherwood Forest

Sherwood Forest symbolizes the protective bubble of friendship created by Robin Hood’s band as well as the sense of protection and home that the natural world can provide. As long as the men remain in Sherwood Forest, they seem to be safe from any potential danger. Even when Robin leads the Sheriff directly to their encampment, the Sheriff feels incapable of arresting them on what they have made their turf. Within the forest, the men also have their laws and way of living, which is presented as more authentic and enjoyable than town life. Robin Hood and his men often go in search of others to dine with them in Sherwood, showing how they want to spread their friendship and merriment and enjoyment of life in the forest even to strangers. Robin is also able to escape King Henry’s men because of his knowledge of the forest, showing how “wild” nature can protect its inhabitants.

The Horn

Robin Hood’s horn represents the devotion his men have to one another and especially to Robin. Whenever Robin blows the horn—which he often does when he needs help—his men drop whatever they are doing and come to him at once, putting the good of the group over their individual interests and priorities. Even as Robin Hood is dying and can barely blow his horn, Little John hears the call and comes to Robin at once. The horn shows that, no matter how much time has passed or how far apart the men are, their friendship and devotion remain more important to them than anything else.

Archery

The sport of archery, at which Robin Hood is extremely adept, represents his fame as well as the lawlessness that accompanies it. Robin first becomes an outlaw because of his archery skill—he is on his way to a competition sponsored by the Sheriff when he meets the forester, whom he kills with his bow and arrow. Robin is often lu red out of Sherwood Forest by archery competitions, unable to resist showing off his skills as well as taunting figures of authority. Archery symbolizes his arrogance, love of deceit, and disdain for corrupt people in power. Robin’s final act is shooting an arrow, with the help of Little John, showing how even as he is close to death, his fun-loving and rebellious spirit remains strong.

Lincoln Green

Robin Hood and his men dress exclusively in Lincoln green cloth, which represents their unity with the forest as well as their devotion toward each other. In wearing the camouflage of Lincoln green in Sherwood, the men are often able to blend into the scenery. However, when worn under disguises in town, the Lincoln green sometimes gives away the identity of Robin and his men, showing how it symbolizes their “otherness.” Although the men are a band of outlaws with no regimented order, the Lincoln green acts as a sort of uniform binding them together, a visual symbol of their friendship and unity.

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