Ivanhoe: Part 1

This A & E miniseries presents Sir Walter Scott's epic adventure, Ivanhoe. Ivanhoe is the story of King Richard's return to England, and the fight against the factions loyal to his scheming half-brother, Prince John. At the center of this intrigue is the disinherited young Saxon knight Sir Wilfred of Ivanhoe, whose chivalrous instincts pit him against the powerful Templar Sir Brian de Bois-Guilbert--and against the passions of his own heart. Ivanhoe would be useful for classes on Medieval history and literature. It is appropriate for high school. *NOTE TO EDUCATORS: A good way to introduce students to the medieval culture of knights and chivalry is A&E's Knights and Armor.

• Norman
• Saxon
• betrothal
• chivalry
• distress
• fervent
• fortitude
• humility
• leech
• treachery

1. The story of Ivanhoe revolves around the Norman conquest of England. Who were the Normans and Saxons?

2. Ivanhoe's father orders Rowena to marry Prince Athelstane. Why is she given no choice in the matter? What does this say about the role of women in the 12th century? What purposes did marriage serve in the 12th century? How is marriage different today?

3. Isaac of York's life is in danger because he is Jewish. Why were Jews so feared and despised? What was the role of anti-Semitism in medieval Europe? Is there a comparison between medieval anti-Semitism and 20th century anti-Semitism?

1. Research medieval feudal society and construct a poster illustrating the levels of society. How does the hierarchy operate? What do the lower levels of society, such as serfs, owe to their lords? What do the lords owe to the king? Conversely, what do the higher levels owe to the lower levels?

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