Ivanhoe · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for Ivanhoe by Walter Scott.
Chapter 1
Epigraph
The epigraph presents a brief poetic image of a person being prepared for execution, hesitating at the final moment of departure.
Chapter 2
Dedicatory Epistle
The author, Laurence Templeton, addresses a letter to the Rev. Dr. Dryasdust, explaining his motivations and methods for writing a romance set in medieval England. He defends his use of antiquarian materials and his blending of ancient and modern language and manners, arguing that such a license is necessary to make the work accessible and engaging. He also discusses the popularity of Scottish historical novels and expresses a desire to create similar interest in English traditions.
Chapter 3
Ivanhoe
The novel opens with a scene of Norman-Saxon tension in the forest of Yorkshire, introducing the conflict between the Saxon Cedric and the Norman conquerors. The narrative sets the stage for the return of the disinherited knight Ivanhoe, the tournament at Ashby, and the intertwining fates of characters like Rebecca, Isaac, and the Templar Brian de Bois-Guilbert.
Chapter 4
Chapter I
The chapter introduces the historical setting of 12th-century England, focusing on the deep divisions between the conquering Normans and the subjugated Saxons. It describes the forest near Doncaster, where the swineherd Gurth and the jester Wamba discuss the oppression of Saxons under Norman rule, the linguistic blending of French and Anglo-Saxon, and the looming threat of nobles like Reginald Front-de-Boeuf. The scene ends with them driving the swine home as a storm approaches.
Chapter 5
Chapter II
Prior Aymer and the Templar Brian de Bois-Guilbert seek lodging at Cedric the Saxon's estate. They encounter the jester Wamba and the swineherd Gurth, who are reluctant to guide them due to the Normans' arrogance. After a tense exchange, Wamba misdirects them, and they later meet a stranger who agrees to guide them to Rotherwood. The Templar and Prior discuss Cedric's pride, his ward Rowena's beauty, and the tensions between Normans and Saxons.
Chapter 6
Chapter III
Cedric the Saxon prepares to host Norman guests, Prior Aymer and Brian de Bois-Guilbert, while expressing his resentment towards Normans and lamenting his son Wilfred's disobedience.
Chapter 7
Chapter IV
Cedric the Saxon hosts a banquet for Prior Aymer and Brian de Bois-Guilbert, during which tensions between Norman and Saxon cultures surface. The Jester Wamba and swineherd Gurth are scolded for their late return, and a mysterious pilgrim arrives seeking shelter.
Chapter 8
Chapter V
The chapter continues the banquet at Cedric's hall, where the Templar Brian de Bois-Guilbert and the Palmer engage in a heated exchange over the prowess of English knights. The Palmer recounts the tournament at Acre, naming King Richard and others, but hesitates to name the sixth knight, whom Bois-Guilbert identifies as Ivanhoe. A wager is made between the Palmer and the Templar, with Lady Rowena and Cedric pledging support for Ivanhoe. The Jew Isaac is verbally abused by the Templar, and the evening concludes with the guests retiring.
Chapter 9
Chapter VI
The Palmer guides Isaac of York through dangerous Norman territories, discussing the persecution of Jews in England. They part ways near Sheffield, but not before the Palmer reveals knowledge of Ivanhoe to Lady Rowena, who inquires anxiously about his health and return. Later, the Palmer helps a terrified Isaac escape Rotherwood by enlisting Gurth's aid with a secret word.
Chapter 10
VII
The chapter describes the miserable state of England under Prince John's rule while King Richard is imprisoned, and sets the scene for the grand tournament at Ashby. Prince John publicly humiliates Isaac and Rebecca by forcing them to sit among the Saxon nobles, leading to a confrontation with Cedric and Athelstane. Wamba the Jester intervenes comically, causing Isaac to fall down the steps, and Prince John steals Isaac's money pouch.
Chapter 11
VIII
The tournament at Ashby-de-la-Zouche continues with the Norman challengers dominating. Cedric the Saxon grows frustrated with Athelstane's indifference. Prince John proposes naming Rebecca as Queen of Love and Beauty to provoke the Saxons, but is dissuaded by his advisors. A mysterious knight known as the Disinherited Knight appears and challenges Brian de Bois-Guilbert by striking his shield with the sharp end of his lance.
Chapter 12
IX
The Disinherited Knight, having won the tournament, is presented to Prince John but refuses to reveal his identity. Prince John, suspecting the knight might be his brother King Richard, grows anxious but is reassured by Waldemar Fitzurse. The knight is awarded a warhorse and then must choose a Queen of Beauty and Love. He passes by Lady Alicia and pauses before Lady Rowena, causing great excitement among the spectators, including Cedric, Rowena, Athelstane, Isaac, and Rebecca.
Chapter 13
The Disinherited Knight's Generosity and Isaac's Lament
The Disinherited Knight, having won the tournament, refuses to accept ransom from Brian de Bois-Guilbert, declaring a mortal quarrel, but generously accepts ransoms from other knights and distributes the money among squires, heralds, and attendants. He then sends his attendant Gurth to pay Isaac the Jew for the horse and arms supplied on credit. The scene shifts to Isaac's lodging, where he laments the loss of fifty zecchins to Prince John, but is consoled by his daughter Rebecca, who reminds him of the advantages of Jewish wealth. Gurth arrives to speak with Isaac.
Chapter 14
Chapter XI
Gurth, traveling with his master's treasure, is ambushed by a band of outlaws in a dark lane. He is captured and interrogated by the robber captain, who learns of the Disinherited Knight's victories and Gurth's honest dealings with Isaac of York. When the captain examines the purse and finds the Jew's repayment, Gurth briefly escapes but is recaptured. The captain then arranges a quarterstaff duel between Gurth and the Miller, which Gurth wins, earning his freedom and the outlaws' respect.
Chapter 15
Chapter XII
The chapter describes the conclusion of the great tournament at Ashby-de-la-Zouche. The Disinherited Knight (Ivanhoe) is named champion of the day after the mysterious Black Knight disappears. He is led to receive his chaplet from Lady Rowena, but when his helmet is removed, his identity is revealed, causing a faint shriek from Rowena and consternation among the spectators, especially Cedric. Ivanhoe collapses from a wound received during the combat.
Chapter 16
XIII
Prince John receives a dire warning that his brother Richard has been freed, prompting him to cut short the tournament and hold an archery contest. He plots to marry Rowena to De Bracy, while Locksley (Robin Hood) challenges the archers and wins the prize.
Chapter 17
Chapter XIV: The Banquet at Ashby
Prince John hosts a grand banquet at Ashby Castle, where he attempts to court Saxon nobles like Cedric and Athelstane. Tensions rise when Cedric, after being insulted, defiantly toasts the health of King Richard the Lionheart, causing discomfort among the Norman guests. The chapter highlights the political maneuvering and racial animosity between Saxons and Normans, as well as Prince John's fickle and impulsive nature.
Chapter 18
XV
Waldemar Fitzurse works tirelessly to reunite Prince John's faction, using promises of power, wealth, and license to win over nobles and mercenaries. He argues against fears of King Richard's return, claiming Richard would return alone and impoverished. Later, Fitzurse encounters De Bracy in yeoman disguise, who reveals a plan to abduct Lady Rowena in the manner of the tribe of Benjamin, with aid from Brian de Bois-Guilbert. Fitzurse criticizes the scheme but ultimately accepts it as a tool for his own ambitions.
Chapter 19
XVI
The Black Knight, known as Le Noir Faineant, travels northward after the tournament, eventually finding shelter at the hermitage of Copmanhurst. The hermit, who proves to be a jovial and uncanonical figure, provides him with a hearty meal of venison pasty and wine. Their conversation turns to the hermit's hidden weapons and his skill with the harp, and they engage in a friendly but tense exchange about the hermit's way of life.
Chapter 20
XVII
The knight and the hermit engage in a night of song and revelry at the hermitage. The hermit criticizes Norman influence on Saxon music and sings a song praising the carefree life of a barefooted friar. The knight performs a ballad about a crusader's return, and their merriment is interrupted by a loud knocking at the door.
Chapter 21
Chapter XVIII
Cedric's plans to unite Rowena and Athelstane for Saxon independence are detailed, along with his strained relationship with his son Ivanhoe. During the journey home, Cedric vents his anger on Gurth, who is bound and later resolves to leave his service. The party stops at a monastery and continues on, delayed by various incidents.
Chapter 22
XIX
Cedric and Athelstane's party, traveling through a dangerous forest, encounter Isaac and Rebecca, who have been abandoned by their hired guards. Despite Athelstane's hostility, Cedric and Rowena agree to let them join the group. As they pass through a narrow defile, they are ambushed by outlaws. Cedric and Athelstane are captured, along with Rowena, Isaac, and Rebecca. Wamba escapes and meets Gurth, who has freed himself. They plan to rescue Cedric but are halted by Locksley.
Chapter 23
Chapter XX
The Black Knight and the hermit are interrupted by Locksley, who reveals the capture of Cedric, Rowena, and Athelstane by Norman knights at Torquilstone. The hermit sheds his religious garb for a yeoman's attire, and Locksley recruits the knight for a rescue mission against Front-de-Boeuf.
Chapter 24
Chapter XXI
Cedric and Athelstane, imprisoned in Torquilstone Castle, reflect on the Norman conquest and Saxon decline. Athelstane focuses on food while Cedric laments their captivity. A sewer brings a meal, and Athelstane issues a challenge to Front-de-Boeuf. A horn blast signals an arrival, and De Bracy reveals his intent to claim Rebecca as his prize. Cedric is moved to a separate cell, and Rowena is also separated.
Chapter 25
XXII
Isaac of York is imprisoned in a damp, dark dungeon beneath Torquilstone Castle. Reginald Front-de-Boeuf demands a ransom of a thousand pounds of silver. Isaac initially resists but eventually agrees, pleading for the release of his daughter Rebecca. Front-de-Boeuf reveals Rebecca has been given to Brian de Bois-Guilbert, causing Isaac to despair and refuse payment. The Baron prepares to torture Isaac, but a bugle call interrupts, and Front-de-Boeuf leaves.
Chapter 26
XXIII
De Bracy confronts Rowena in her chamber, attempting to coerce her into marriage by threatening the lives of Ivanhoe and Cedric. Rowena initially resists with haughty defiance, but breaks down in terror when she realizes the seriousness of her danger. De Bracy, torn between his desires and his conscience, is interrupted by a horn blast signaling an external threat. The chapter includes a historical excursus on the cruelties of Norman barons under King Stephen.
Chapter 27
Chapter XXIV
In this intense chapter, Brian de Bois-Guilbert confronts Rebecca in the turret-chamber of Torquilstone Castle. He reveals his inner conflict, having sacrificed personal freedom for the power and ambition of the Templar Order, and attempts to persuade Rebecca to become his partner in his grand schemes. Rebecca staunchly resists his advances, defending her faith and honor. When Bois-Guilbert threatens violence, she climbs onto the parapet and threatens to throw herself to her death rather than submit. The Templar, impressed by her courage, hesitates.
Chapter 28
XXV
The Templar and De Bracy discuss their failed love suits, interrupted by a horn. Front-de-Boeuf receives a defiant letter from Wamba and Gurth, who, with the Black Knight and Locksley, demand the release of Cedric, Rowena, Athelstane, Isaac, and Rebecca. The allies prepare to besiege Torquilstone, and Wamba volunteers to enter the castle disguised as a friar to gather intelligence. The Norman knights debate their defense and send a reply refusing the defiance and demanding a priest for the prisoners' execution.
Chapter 29
XXVI
Wamba, disguised as a friar, gains entry to Front-de-Boeuf's castle to rescue Cedric and Athelstane. He offers to exchange clothes with Cedric so that Cedric can escape, but Cedric initially insists that Athelstane should go instead. After a debate, Cedric accepts the disguise and leaves, armed with the password 'Pax vobiscum.' On his way out, he is stopped by a woman seeking comfort for a wounded prisoner.
Chapter 30
Chapter XXVII
In this chapter, the captives at Torquilstone Castle negotiate their ransom while tensions rise between Normans and Saxons. Front-de-Boeuf and De Bracy confront Athelstane and Wamba, discovering that Cedric has escaped disguised as a monk. Meanwhile, Urfried (Ulrica) reveals her tragic past to Cedric, confessing her guilt as the daughter of Torquil Wolfganger and her life as the paramour of her father's murderer.
Chapter 31
XXVIII
Rebecca persuades her father Isaac to transport the wounded Ivanhoe to their home in Ashby, where she tends to his injuries using her knowledge of healing. Ivanhoe impatiently awaits recovery and inquires about Cedric, Rowena, and Prince John's actions. Rebecca promises he will bear his armor within eight days, asking only that he believe a Jew may serve a Christian without reward.
Chapter 32
XXIX
Rebecca tends to the wounded Ivanhoe in the castle of Front-de-Boeuf, while the castle is besieged. Ivanhoe, restless and yearning to join the battle, discusses the nature of chivalry with Rebecca, who questions its value. Rebecca struggles with her feelings for Ivanhoe, knowing they are not reciprocated, and she resolves to suppress her emotions. From the window, Rebecca describes the Black Knight's heroic deeds in the fray, inspiring Ivanhoe's admiration.
Chapter 33
The Siege of Torquilstone
The chapter depicts the siege of Torquilstone Castle, where the Templar and De Bracy coordinate defenses after losing the barbican. Front-de-Boeuf lies dying, tormented by guilt and confronted by Ulrica, who reveals her role in his past crimes and sets the castle ablaze. The besiegers, led by Saxon outlaws, press the attack as the defenders face dwindling numbers and morale.
Chapter 34
XXXI
The assault on Torquilstone Castle reaches its climax. Cedric, the Black Knight, Locksley, and the Friar coordinate the attack. The Black Knight constructs a floating bridge to cross the moat. Inside, Ulrica's diversion aids the attackers. The Templar, Brian de Bois-Guilbert, attempts to abduct Rebecca but is thwarted by the Black Knight, who rescues Ivanhoe. Cedric saves Rowena, and Wamba's clever ruse frees himself and Athelstane. De Bracy is defeated and yields to the Black Knight. The castle burns as the siege concludes.
Chapter 35
XXXII
The outlaws gather at the Trysting-tree to divide the spoils from the siege of Torquilstone. Locksley presides over the distribution with fairness, setting aside portions for the church, widows, and a public treasury. The Black Knight is impressed by the outlaws' orderly governance. Friar Tuck arrives triumphantly, dragging Isaac of York by a halter, claiming to have converted him. Isaac, terrified, begs for release. Locksley questions the Friar about his capture, and the Friar recounts finding Isaac in a cellar and being trapped by falling masonry. The chapter ends with the Friar's boastful account and Isaac's distress.
Chapter 36
Chapter XXXIII
Prior Aymer is ransomed and writes a letter to Brian de Bois-Guilbert for Isaac's safe-conduct. Locksley negotiates Isaac's ransom, revealing his past connection with Rebecca. Isaac sets off to ransom his daughter, and the Black Knight departs after a respectful exchange with the outlaw leader.
Chapter 37
Chapter XXXIV: The Conspiracy Thickens
Prince John and his allies, Waldemar Fitzurse and De Bracy, debate their next move after the fall of Torquilstone. With Front-de-Boeuf, De Bracy, and Bois-Guilbert missing, their conspiracy against King Richard is imperiled. Waldemar proposes capturing Richard, but De Bracy refuses due to a debt of honor. Prince John grows paranoid and manipulative, ultimately suggesting imprisonment or worse for his brother.
Chapter 38
Chapter XXXV
Isaac of York journeys to Templestowe to ransom his daughter Rebecca from Brian de Bois-Guilbert, but is intercepted by the Grand Master Lucas de Beaumanoir, who condemns Rebecca as a sorceress and threatens her life. A letter from Prior Aymer is intercepted, revealing the Prior's worldly and irreverent tone, which further enrages Beaumanoir.
Chapter 39
Chapter XXXVI
The Grand Master Lucas de Beaumanoir, convinced that Rebecca is a sorceress who has enchanted Brian de Bois-Guilbert, resolves to try and condemn her. Albert Malvoisin, the Preceptor, attempts to steer the Grand Master's wrath away from Bois-Guilbert and onto Rebecca. Bois-Guilbert, torn between his passion for Rebecca and his ambition, ultimately decides to abandon her to her fate. Rebecca is brought before the tribunal, where she receives a scrap of paper from a secret friend.
Chapter 40
The Trial of Rebecca
Rebecca is put on trial before the Grand Master Lucas de Beaumanoir and the assembled Templars, accused of sorcery and enchanting Brian de Bois-Guilbert. Despite Bois-Guilbert's agitation and the biased testimony against her, Rebecca demands a trial by combat, throwing down her glove as her gage.
Chapter 41
Chapter XXXVIII
Rebecca stands trial before the Templar Grand Master Lucas Beaumanoir on charges of sorcery. She demands a trial by combat and sends a message to her father Isaac through the crippled peasant Higg. Isaac meets with Rabbi Ben Samuel, and they resolve to seek help from Wilfred of Ivanhoe. The Grand Master, moved by Rebecca's courage, grants her request and names Brian de Bois-Guilbert as the Templar's champion.
Chapter 42
Chapter XXXIX
Bois-Guilbert confronts Rebecca in her cell, offering to save her from execution if she becomes his lover. Rebecca refuses, asserting her faith and courage. Bois-Guilbert struggles with his conscience but ultimately decides to proceed with the trial by combat, fearing dishonor and loss of status.
Chapter 43
XL
The Black Knight (King Richard) leaves Ivanhoe at Saint Botolph's Priory to recover, taking Wamba as his guide to Coningsburgh for Athelstane's funeral. Ivanhoe, feeling recovered, follows them. Meanwhile, Richard reveals his identity to the yeomen after a skirmish with Waldemar Fitzurse, whom he spares but banishes. Robin Hood (Locksley) and Friar Tuck are present, and Richard forgives their past offenses.
Chapter 44
XLI
King Richard, accompanied by Ivanhoe and Gurth, meets Robin Hood and his outlaws in the forest after a skirmish. Richard reveals his identity to Ivanhoe and explains his need for secrecy to gather forces against treason. The king joins the outlaws for a feast, but Ivanhoe and Robin Hood grow anxious about the revelry. Robin Hood eventually signals the end of the gathering, and Richard, Ivanhoe, Gurth, and Wamba proceed to Coningsburgh Castle, where Athelstane's funeral is underway.
Chapter 45
XLII
King Richard reveals his identity to Cedric and asks for reconciliation with Ivanhoe. Cedric grants forgiveness but insists on Saxon customs. Athelstane appears alive, having survived the siege, and renounces his claim to the throne, swearing allegiance to Richard. Ivanhoe vanishes after a brief conference with a Jew, followed by Richard. The chapter concludes with preparations for Athelstane's funeral and Richard's plea for unity between Normans and Saxons.
Chapter 46
XLIII
The scene returns to Templestowe where Rebecca awaits trial by combat for sorcery. The Grand Master presides over the lists, with a stake prepared for execution. Rebecca refuses Bois-Guilbert's offer of escape. At the last moment, Ivanhoe arrives as her champion, though wounded and exhausted. In the charge, Ivanhoe's horse falls, but Bois-Guilbert also falls, apparently dead, and Rebecca is declared free.
Chapter 47
Chapter XLIV
The chapter concludes the trial by combat, with Ivanhoe declared victor and Rebecca freed. King Richard arrives, arrests Albert de Malvoisin for high treason, and confronts the Grand Master of the Templars, who withdraws his forces. Rebecca and Isaac leave quietly. Richard pardons Prince John but punishes lesser conspirators. Cedric accepts the end of his Saxon restoration plans as Rowena and Athelstane refuse to marry.
Chapter 48
Endnotes
The endnotes provide historical and editorial commentary on various elements of the novel, including the cruelty of the Cassilis family, the origins of heraldry, the use of African slaves by Templars, Saxon and Norman hunting terms, and the author's reflections on literary and antiquarian matters.
