Ritson, Joseph, 1752-1803
English antiquary, supporter of the French Revolution, and vegetarian activist. Ritson challenged editors of early English poetry, firmly believing in maintaining textual accuracy in the editing of early texts. As a publisher of children's songs, verses, and fairy stories, Ritson is best remembered for his Robin Hood: A Collection of All the Ancient Poems, Songs and Ballads Now Extant Relative to That Outlaw.