The Outlaw Legend

This 1996 book examines why outlaws from Robin Hood to outlaws in cyberspace are regarded as heroes rather than criminals.

From Robin Hood to outlaws-in-cyberspace, many supposed criminals have become national heroes. The Outlaw Legend, first published in 1996, examines why outlaw heroes are part of folklore and why they become important in times of political stress. This is a wonderfully illustrated and entertaining read.British and Irish highwaymen, American badmen and Australian bushrangers are part of our folklore - just think of Robin Hood, Dick Turpin, Billy the Kid, Jesse James and Ned Kelly. Most have been remembered as noble bandits or national heroes even though they were criminals. Remembered and recreated through song, stories and film, Graham Seal shows in this 1996 book that outlaw heroes have survived remarkably across time and place, and share many characteristics when their 'role' is examined in a social context. They also seem to become important in times of social, economic and political stress. Illustrated throughout, this is a lively and entertaining read beginning with Robin Hood and progressing through to outlaws in cyberspace.