‘Ivanhoe’ is a historical novel by Sir Walter Scott
based on the theme of the Saxon-Norman conflict
in England during 12th century. The Normans
conquered England in the 11th century by defeating
the Saxons. Though King Richard was a Norman but
he had the required values of leadership and
justice. The key figure, Wilfred of Ivanhoe is a
Saxon who chose to enter the service of Richard,
learnt all the arts of chivalry and went off to the
Crusades. He, therefore, represents the best of
both cultures and is a model for the future unity of
England.
The original flavour of this classic has been
carefully retained in this abridged version.