Synopses & Reviews
Highwaymen, badmen and bushrangers, both mythical and historical, have been part of folklore for centuries. Remembered and recreated through song, stories and film, this cultural tradition has been remarkably resilient across time and place. Graham Seal shows that these famous "social bandits" share many characteristics, particularly as anti-authority figures, and are best understood within class, ethnic and national struggles. From Robin Hood to outlaws in cyberspace, this book is an important study for folklorists.
Synopsis
This book examines why outlaws from Robin Hood to outlaws in cyberspace are regarded as heroes rather than criminals.
Synopsis
Outlaws are part of our folklore - just think of Robin Hood, Dick Turpin, Billy the Kid, Jesse James and Ned Kelly. Most have acquired the status of noble bandits or national heroes despite the fact that they were criminals. Remembered and recreated through song, stories and film, Graham Seal shows that outlaw heroes have survived remarkably across time and place, and share many characteristics when their 'role' is examined in a social context. Illustrated throughout, this is a lively and entertaining read, beginning with Robin Hood and ending with outlaws in cyberspace.
Synopsis
From Robin Hood to outlaws in cyberspace, this book is an important study for folklorists. It shows how these famous "social bandits" share many characteristics, particularly as anti-authority figures, and are best understood within class, ethnic and national struggles.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. 231-241) and index.
Table of Contents
1. The outlaw legend; 2. Outlaws of myth; 3. British highwaymen; 4. American badmen; 5. Australian bushrangers; 6. Outlaw to national hero: the case of Ned Kelly; 7. Interpreting the Legend: convenient fictions, lore and law.