Robin Hood Dobson and Taylor wrote, 'More generally the Robin of the broadsides is a much less tragic, less heroic and in the last resort less mature figure than his medieval predecessor'. In most of the broadside ballads Robin Hood remains a plebeian figure, a notable exception being Martin Parker's attempt at an overall life of Robin Hood, A True Tale of Robin Hood, which also emphasises the theme of Robin Hood's generosity to the poor more than the broadsheet ballads do in general. The 17th century introduced the minstrel Alan-a-Dale. He first appeared in a 17th-century broadside ballad, and unlike many
Robin Hood in popular culture titled "Robin Hood" starred Russell Crowe as the main character. Directed by Ridley Scott, it was considered the most discussed and shared movie of 2010. The character of Robin Hood appears, either as a playable character or as a major supporting character, in the following games: Robin Hood in popular culture The folkloric hero Robin Hood has appeared many times, in many different variations, in popular modern works. Robin Hood has appeared in a number of plays throughout the medieval, early modern and modern periods. The first record of a Robin Hood play being performed is in Exeter in 1426-27.