Ivanhoe: A Romance

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

82

Title

Ivanhoe: A Romance

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in 12th-century England during the reign of Richard I, this romance explores the clash between Saxon and Norman cultures through the eyes of the outlawed knight Wilfred of Ivanhoe. Blending historical detail with chivalric adventure, the novel offers a vivid portrait of medieval life, tournaments, and the enduring tensions of conquest and identity.

Summary up to 500 words

Set in England during the reign of King Richard the Lionheart, *Ivanhoe: A Romance* by Sir Walter Scott explores the tensions between the Norman ruling class and the Saxon populace. The narrative centers on Wilfred of Ivanhoe, a Saxon knight exiled by his father, Cedric, for his love of Lady Rowena, daughter of the Jewish princess Rebecca. After winning a tournament at Ashby, Wilfred is wounded and captured by the villainous Templar Bois-Guilbert and the Norman baron Front-de-Bœuf. Imprisoned in the castle of Torquilstone, Wilfred is secretly aided by Rebecca, who tends to his wounds despite the hostility of the Templars. Tension mounts as the castle is besieged by Saxon outlaws led by Cedric. Amidst the chaos of battle, Wilfred is rescued by the King, who has been testing the loyalty of his subjects in disguise. The novel culminates in a dramatic resolution involving the death of the Templar Bois-Guilbert, the reconciliation of the Saxons and Normans, and the restoration of order. Scott uses the setting to contrast the martial spirit of the Saxons with the chivalric ideals of the Normans, ultimately celebrating a unified English identity forged through conflict and shared values. The story also highlights the plight of the Jewish community, particularly Rebecca, who faces persecution yet displays profound courage and compassion. Through these intertwined narratives, Scott examines themes of loyalty, prejudice, and the evolution of a national identity.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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Local file path

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Categories

• Romance
• Historical Fiction
• Medieval England