Ivanhoe: A Romance

'Ivanhoe' by Walter Scott is a historical romance about heroism, loyalty and betrayal. The epitome of the chivalric novel, it sweeps listeners into Medieval England and the lives of a memorable cast of characters. Ivanhoe, a trusted ally of Richard the Lionhearted, returns from the Crusades to reclaim the inheritance his father denied him. Rebecca, a vibrant, beautiful Jewish woman, is defended by Ivanhoe against a charge of witchcraft-but it is Lady Rowena who is Ivanhoe's true love. The wicked Prince John plots to usurp England's throne, but two of the most popular heroes in all of English literature-Richard the Lionhearted and the well-loved, famous outlaw Robin Hood-team up to defeat the Normans and regain the castle. The success of this novel lies with Sir Walter Scott's skillful blend of historic reality, chivalric romance, and high adventure. This novel was published in 1820 and it is among Scott's most popular titles. It sends us back to the late 12th century renaissance-times of social transformations, chivalry, romance and adventure.