SEARCH:

A&E Original Movie

Ivanhoe: Part 4

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.

Vocabulary

• condemned
• endanger
• filially
• forfeit
• grievous
• incited
• intrigue
• perfidy
• priory
• scheming
• treason
• vagabonds

Discussion Questions

1. The conflict between Christianity and other faiths is emphasized throughout the story of Ivanhoe. How does religion complicate the relationship between Rebecca and Ivanhoe?
2. The Black Knight, whom we now know is King Richard, spares the life of De Bracy. Why does King Richard let De Bracy live when De Bracy has betrayed him?
3. Ivanhoe, at its heart, is a love story. Actually, it is a series of love stories. How do relations between men and women complicate the story?

Extended Activities

1. Compare Ivanhoe and Robinhood. What are their similarities? Differences? How do their stories intertwine?