Features Podcast

Robin Hood and the Christmastime Tradition with Alex Kaufman

He’s a hero. He’s an outlaw. And it turns out he’s also Christmastime favourite. Given his many incarnations, from a foxy cartoon heartthrob, to the gruff and grizzled Hugh Jackman that previewed this week, it’s hard not to fall in love with some version or other of Robin Hood. And as we’ll find out in this episode, even jolly old Saint Nick just happens to be a fan. This week, Danièle speaks with Alexander L. Kaufman about how Robin Hood’s legend evolved over time, his transformation into a pantomime favourite, and that time Robin robbed Santa Claus himself.

Alexander L. Kaufman is Professor of Humanities and Professor of English at Ball State University, where his research ranges from Robin Hood to medievalism. His new book is Christmastime Texts and the Popularity of the Robin Hood Tradition.

The creator and host of The Medieval Podcast is Danièle Cybulskie. Click here to visit her website or follow her on BlueSky @5minmedievalist.bsky.social.