Ivanhoe · Chapter
XIX explained
Cedric and Athelstane's party, traveling through a dangerous forest, encounter Isaac and Rebecca, who have been abandoned by their hired guards.
What happens
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.
Themes in this chapter
Norman-Saxon Conflict
The outlaws adopt Saxon war-cries, highlighting the ethnic tensions and the Saxon resistance against Norman rule.
Antisemitism and Prejudice
Athelstane's hostility toward Isaac and Rebecca reflects the pervasive anti-Jewish sentiment of the era.
Love and Loyalty
Wamba's tears and Gurth's determination to rescue Cedric demonstrate deep loyalty despite their low status.
Characters to notice
- Cedric the Saxon
Captured after fighting fiercely; disarmed by his own blow against a branch.
- Athelstane of Coningsburgh
Captured without being able to draw his weapon; shows hostility toward Isaac.
- Lady Rowena
Captured; shows compassion by agreeing to let Isaac and Rebecca join the party.
- Rebecca
Pleads with Rowena for protection; travels in the rear and is captured.
- Isaac of York
Abandoned by his guards; joins Cedric's party and is captured.
- Wamba
Escapes capture after fighting bravely; meets Gurth and plans rescue.
Key passages
“I have heard men talk of the blessings of freedom, but I wish any wise man would teach me what use to make of it now that I have it.”
Wamba reflects on the irony of gaining freedom but not knowing how to use it.
Wamba's internal conflict after escaping captivity.
“It is not for myself that I pray this favour; nor is it even for that poor old man. I know that to wrong and to spoil our nation is a light fault, if not a merit, with the Christians; and what is it to us whether it be done in the city, in the desert, or in the field? But it is in the name of one dear to many, and dear even to you, that I beseech you to let this sick person be transported with care and tenderness under your protection.”
Rebecca pleads not for herself but for a sick friend, acknowledging Christian prejudice against Jews.
Rebecca's appeal to Rowena's compassion, invoking a shared faith.