Roger Godberd was a medieval outlaw who has been suggested as a possible historical basis for the legend of Robin Hood.[1] Some have suggested his life was the inspiration for the story of Robin Hood, though there is no solid evidence supporting this claim. Godberd’s criminal history is often compared with the Robin Hood legend since some minor details align with the famous story.
Godberd lived during the 13th century around the Leicestershire area and traveled throughout England as an outlaw committing crimes with a group of bandits. Roger lived in a time when there was criticism towards King Henry III and King Edward I for leaving the royal finances in disarray and taxing the townspeople, which made many commoners unhappy.[2] Henry III's reign has been associated with stories of outlawry and is seen as a more plausible setting for the ballads of Robin Hood.[3] Henry III's reign led to the Second Barons' War and the seizure of power by Simon de Montfort, whom Godberd served under until Simon was killed in battle in 1265.
Godberd has been thought to be Robin Hood for various reasons, including perceived similarities between the battles they fought in and the ways they committed their crimes. The nickname or surname 'Robinhood' appeared before the end of the 13th century, with the name 'Hood' later becoming common and combined with names like Robert Hood.[4] The stories of Robin Hood themselves provide little detail connecting them with real-life people or events. This does not mean that the stories were not based on a real person, but rather that whoever was the chief inspiration for Robin Hood was likely not a person of standing in the public eye.[5]