Why was Jesse James in the hospitable riddle?

Answer 1

Jesse James, the infamous American outlaw, was involved in the "hospitable riddle" primarily due to his interactions with various communities and individuals during his life of crime. The term refers to the dual nature of his persona as both a feared criminal and a folk hero, often receiving sympathy and support from certain segments of society. This paradox highlights the complexities of his character and the societal views surrounding outlaws in the post-Civil War era. Ultimately, it reflects how his actions and reputation elicited both hostility and hospitality from different groups.