4.3.3 - The Sheriff’s Kitchen By Ronald Gow

Book Back Questions

1. Write an essay on how Little John rescued Robin Hood from the Sheriff’s castle.

Little John rescues Robin Hood by using clever planning and disguise. When the Sheriff announces that Robin Hood is captured and will die at sunrise, Little John and Friar Truck are already inside the castle, hiding under the table in the kitchen. Later, Little John disguises himself as a sentry by wearing the steel cap, leather coat, and carrying the halberd. He tricks the steward into drinking ale and eating pies until he becomes careless. When the key of the prison cell falls on the table, Little John quickly takes it and opens the cell. He frees Robin Hood and locks the Sheriff inside the same cell. Thus, through intelligence and bold action, Little John successfully rescues Robin Hood.

2. Justify the title “The Sheriff’s Kitchen”.

The title “The Sheriff’s Kitchen” is very appropriate because most of the important events of the play take place in the kitchen of the Sheriff’s castle. The play begins with the cook preparing food and arguing with the steward in the kitchen. Later, Little John and Friar Truck enter the castle by smelling the food kept in the kitchen. They hide under the table and plan their actions there. The kitchen becomes the place where disguises are made, tricks are played, and keys are dropped. It is from the kitchen that Robin Hood is rescued and the Sheriff is trapped. Thus, the kitchen becomes the center of action, making the title suitable and meaningful.

3. Sketch the character of Robin Hood.

Robin Hood is a brave and clever hero. Though he is captured by the Sheriff, he does not lose hope. He trusts his friends, especially Little John. Robin Hood represents courage and intelligence. Even while imprisoned, he remains calm and confident. His escape from the prison shows that he belongs to a group of smart and loyal companions. He is loved by his followers and feared by the Sheriff. Robin Hood stands for justice and freedom. Though he does not appear much on stage, his presence controls the entire action of the play. Thus, Robin Hood is shown as a fearless leader with clever supporters.

4. Who is Little John?

Little John is a close companion and loyal follower of Robin Hood. He is intelligent, bold, and quick-witted. In the play, he plays the most important role in rescuing Robin Hood. He enters the Sheriff’s castle secretly with Friar Truck. By disguising himself as a sentry, he tricks the steward and gains access to the prison cell. He uses the dropped key cleverly to free Robin Hood and imprison the Sheriff instead. Little John’s bravery and smart thinking save the situation. He does not use force but uses intelligence and presence of mind. Thus, Little John is shown as a clever rescuer and faithful friend.

5. Discuss the smart moves of Robin Hood.

Robin Hood’s smart moves are seen through his planning and trust in his companions. Though he is captured, his followers act wisely to rescue him. The plan to hide in the kitchen, use disguise, distract the steward with food and ale, and take the prison key shows smart thinking. Robin Hood benefits from these intelligent moves without violence. His escape is achieved by strategy rather than strength. The Sheriff is trapped in his own prison, which proves Robin Hood’s clever planning. Thus, Robin Hood’s success lies in intelligence, teamwork, and smart execution rather than open fighting.