I'm considering writing a novel of a female Robin Hood, and was wondering if it could be historically accurate to write her as being half-Asian? The story would take place in the 12th century in England. Do you have any information on Asian people living in England at that time?

medievalpoc:

P.P.S. There’s a good bit of evidence that a character like the one you describe would not have necessarily been perceived as physically “other” or “different” by Medieval English society; but you’re writing for people reading this story now. Probably keep that in mind.

Also, an Asian woman as a Robin Hood type character would make a fascinating story and a lot of sense! Many Asian nations/regions have a long tradition of women warriors.

One more fun thing: Trotula of Salerno, who revolutionized Medieval medicine by and for women, synthesizing knowledge flowing out of Asia and the Middle East regarding medicine and specifically gynecology. In Medieval Europe, some of the most well-known people of color were physicians, because African and Asian medicine was pretty revered.

It all depends on what kind of story you want to tell. You can have some pretty epic Merry Men and Women, too!