National Thief Day

Young woman caught in the act, wearing all black, sneaking through a dimly lit, bustling city street.. — National thief day illustration

Hey there, fellow internet explorer! Today, let's dive into the intriguing world of National Thief Day.

When is Thief Day?

It's national thief day on the 10th October.

What's the Deal with National Thief Day?

Oh, National Thief Day, you sneaky little rascal! This unofficial holiday is all about celebrating those fictional characters in books, movies, and TV shows who manage to steal our hearts with their wit, charm, and sticky fingers. No actual stealing, mind you, just appreciating the art of thievery within the realm of entertainment.

Throughout the years, people online have shown an undying love for these cunning individuals. Our data detected an impressive 14 mentions, with the peak being on October 10th, 2017. On that day, the internet was abuzz with discussions about their favorite fictional thieves, from Robin Hood to Carmen Sandiego.

So, whether you're a fan of the lovable gentleman thief Arsène Lupin or find yourself rooting for the crafty anti-hero Thomas Crown, National Thief Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate these sly characters who steal the show.

History behind the term 'Thief'

1250

Origins of the Word

The term 'thief' originates from the Old English word 'thēof', which can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word 'theubaz'. Its meaning involves someone who stealthily takes property that does not belong to them.

900 AD

The Birth of the Word

The term 'thief' originates from the Old English word 'þeof,' which was derived from the Proto-Germanic 'theubaz.' In Old English, 'þeof' referred to a person who stole or took someone else's property unlawfully. The word had a negative connotation and was used to describe a criminal or someone who acted dishonestly.

14th Century

Legal Definition

In the 14th century, the term 'thief' became legally defined with specific criteria. Common law specified that a person had to commit a theft secretly and with the intention of permanently depriving the rightful owner of their property to be considered a thief.

14th Century

Development of the Concept

During the 14th century, the term 'thief' began to encompass a broader range of activities beyond simple theft. It extended to individuals who engaged in pickpocketing, burglary, and robbery. The concept of a thief became more entrenched in societal norms, and laws were created to punish those who committed such acts.

1800s

Thievery and Criminal Subculture

During the 19th century, the term 'thief' became associated with a criminal subculture that engaged in various forms of thievery. The romanticization of notorious thieves like Robin Hood added to their cultural impact.

16th Century

Infamous Thieves in Literature

The 16th century saw the rise of famous literary works featuring cunning and notorious thieves. One notable example is Robin Hood, the legendary outlaw who stole from the rich to give to the poor. These tales of daring and adventure captivated the public's imagination, further solidifying the image of a thief as a charismatic figure who defied authority.

19th Century

Romanticization of Thieves

In the 19th century, thieves became romanticized in popular culture. Writers like Victor Hugo portrayed thieves as flawed but ultimately noble characters. The idea of thieves as rebels against societal norms gained traction, and the concept of the 'gentleman thief' emerged, exemplified by characters like Arsène Lupin and Maurice Leblanc.

1930s

Depictions in Popular Culture

The image of a thief in popular culture was further solidified during the 1930s. With the rise of cinema, characters like the suave jewel thief featured in movies, such as 'The Thin Man' (1934), captivated audiences worldwide.

Modern Day

Evolution of the Term

In modern usage, the term 'thief' extends beyond traditional property theft. It can refer to individuals who deceive, cheat, or engage in any form of dishonest behavior. Moreover, colloquial expressions like 'time thief' or 'joy thief' have emerged, characterizing intangible things or experiences that are taken away.

20th Century

Thieves in Popular Culture

The 20th century witnessed the emergence of thieves as captivating figures in various forms of media. Films, books, and television shows featuring thieves as protagonists or antiheroes became incredibly popular. From iconic characters like James Bond and his adversaries to heist movies like 'Ocean's Eleven,' thieves continued to capture the imagination of audiences worldwide.

Did you know?

Did you know? The world's most famous detective, Sherlock Holmes, once crossed paths with one of the most notorious thieves in literature, Arsène Lupin. In the novel 'Sherlock Holmes vs. Arsène Lupin,' these brilliant minds compete against each other in a thrilling battle of wits and skills.