WARNING! SPOILERS: This post contains spoilers and speculation for the Doctor Who series eight episode Robot of Sherwood. Is Robin Hood the heroic outlaw, savior of the poor, a man or a myth? Mythology is a map of the subconscious. To listen to, read or watch a story is to participate in a waking dream. We build character and narrative to explore the deep things we are otherwise afraid to touch. History is a story wreathed in lies. Memories are faulty and accounts coerced. Reality changes as it is observed and infinite points of view renders it ever fluid. We do not reside in a quantifiable universe. Who decides what is real and what is not? More importantly who decides what counts? Is Robins story less powerful if he only exists in our heads? Is the Doctors? Mark Gatiss Robot of Sherwood grabs these two figures of myth and legend and crashes them together with amusing results. Off we go with our band of merry men to find out what happens when heroes collide.
9. Into The Woods
The Doctors initial encounter with Robin Hood answers an age-old question. In a battle between sword and spoon which would win? Answer - the companion. Claras the only one who doesnt end up in the pond. The Doctor isnt really fighting with an eating utensil of course, thats just a distraction. Hes outwitting Robin with strategy and misdirection. In this instance the Doctor is the romantic hero, overcoming violence and cynicism with intellect. Robin changes in the wake of the Doctors actions. He sheathes his sword to adapt and grow as a person. He chooses peace though it comes with a good bit of friendly rivalry. The Doctor is not so much a protagonist as a catalyst. He is whatever the people around him need him to be so that they may learn and further their moral development.
Mary Ogle is the author and illustrator of “Orangeroof Zoo” a whimsical tale of magical realism told through the pages of a coloring book for adults. Working as a professional artist in the digital medium, Mary’s commissions have included everything from fine art to fan art, book cover design, illustration and book layout. Find more of Mary’s work at www.maryogle.com. Mary currently finds inspiration in the Ojai Valley, residing in a snug little cottage with a recalcitrant cat.
