In first-century Judea, Jewish prince Judah Ben-Hur is betrayed by his childhood friend Messala and given a life sentence as a Roman galley slave. After Ben-Hur saves the life of his commander during a pirate attack, he returns to Galilee a free man but bent on revenge against Messala. His quest for vengeance turns into insurrection, but his life is eventually transformed through his encounters with the Christ. This best-selling novel of redemption has been translated into multiple languages and adapted for radio, stage, television, and several motion pictures. The 1959 movie starring Charlton Heston won eleven Academy Awards. As is often the case, however, the original novel tells a far better tale than the movie. Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ is absolutely compelling. Lew Wallace's vivid attention to detail and superb writing style make the story as accessible and enjoyable today as when it was first published. Blessed by Pope Leo XIII---the first work of fiction to be so honored---Ben-Hur is one of the great works of American literature. Newly designed and typeset by Waking Lion Press, this edition is printed on archival-quality, acid-free paper for a lifetime of reading enjoyment.