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William of Cloudeslee's Archery

From Hero-Myths & Legends of the British Race by M. I. Ebbutt

This reader is drawn from Hero-Myths & Legends of the British Race by M. I. Ebbutt, a collection first published in 1910. The tale of William of Cloudeslee, Adam Bell, and Clym of the Clough is part of the Robin Hood cycle of outlaw ballads from medieval England, celebrating the skill and daring of yeomen archers who lived outside the law. The apple-shot echoes the Swiss legend of William Tell and is one of the most famous tests of archery in English folklore. This text reflects its era; a few period terms have been modernised. The story is worth a reader's time because it explores the tension between pride and loyalty, the cost of redemption, and the moment when skill becomes something greater than craft—a test of character under pressure.

Band

Blue · Independent readers, confidentTypical starting range: ages 12–14

Length

long · about 1092 words in 5 sections · 2 pictures

Source

Hero-Myths & Legends of the British Race, M. I. Ebbutt

First published

see the About page in the reader

Regions

Canada · United States

Included formats

• · Web reader and PDF
• · EPUB for e-readers
• · Home-print sheet
• · Folded booklet
• · Binder edition (8.5 × 11)
• · Worksheet
• · Quick Check (10 questions) with answer key
• · Read-aloud script
• · Teacher’s Edition (members)

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