Ivanhoe (1819) by Sir Walter Scott is the quintessential novel of romantic medieval chivalry, beloved by generations of readers.
Sir Wilfred of Ivanhoe, disinherited by his father, returns home to England from the Crusades, and lively adventure ensues -- a jousting tournament, villainous Norman knights and passionate Templars, proud Saxon prisoners including Ivanhoe's own father and the lovely Lady Rowena, a castle siege, Robin Hood and his merry men, carousing friars, a clever and loyal jester and swineherd, a mysterious Black Knight who is more than he seems, the conniving Prince John, the return of King Richard the Lionheart, a trial and triumph of justice, an old noble Jew and his beautiful and courageous daughter Rebecca.
And yet, among the vibrant pageantry and chivalry is a story of dark prejudice, religious conflict, sacrifice, and love that uplifts the novel to a more sophisticated level, and the fate of the unforgettable Rebecca takes center stage.