In 12th-century England, King Richard the Lionheart is taken captive while returning from the Crusades. In his absence, the throne is usurped by his treacherous brother Prince John, who heavily taxes the Saxon populace to raise a ransom, purportedly to free Richard, but in reality to strengthen his own power. The Norman lords support John, oppressing the Saxons with the help of the corrupt Sherwood Forest sheriff. Meanwhile, Sir Robin of Locksley, a Saxon nobleman, becomes an outlaw after defying the injustices of Prince John and the sheriff. He retreats to Sherwood Forest, where he gathers a band of loyal followers, and earns the title of Robin Hood.

Robin Hood and his men launch a campaign of guerrilla warfare against Prince John and his Norman allies, taking from the rich and giving to the poor. They gain public support and inspire hope among the oppressed Saxons. Amidst these events, Robin Hood encounters and becomes enamored with the courageous and beautiful Maid Marian, a Norman ward of King Richard. Their relationship develops against the backdrop of Robin's escalating struggle for justice, as he seeks to end the tyranny of Prince John and restore peace and rightful rule to England. The conflict leads to a series of adventures that cement Robin Hood's legacy as a legendary hero.