Most Popular Books by Walter Scott

Ivanhoe is the story of one of the remaining Saxon noble families at a time when the English nobility was overwhelmingly Norman. It follows the Saxon protagonist, Wilfred of Ivanhoe, who is out of favor with his father for his allegiance to the Norman king, Richard I of England. The story is set in 1194, after the failure of the Third Crusade, when many of the Crusaders were still returning to Europe. King Richard, who had been captured by the Duke of Austria on his way back, was believed to still be in the arms of his captors. The legendary Robin Hood, initially under the name of Locksley, is also a character in the story, as are his "merry men." The character that Scott gave to Robin Hood in Ivanhoe helped shape the modern notion of this figure as a cheery noble outlaw.

This vintage book contains Sir Walter Scott’s 1820 historical novel, "Ivanhoe". Set in twelfth-century England, it tells the story of a Wilfred of Ivanhoe, a Saxon who has become disgraced in his father’s eyes for his allegiance to the Norman king, Richard I. Ivanhoe is considered to have had a significant influence on increasing interest in romance and medievalism in literature, and it is highly recommended for those with an interest in these genres. Sir Walter Scott (1771 - 1832) was a Scottish historical novelist, poet, and playwright - considered to be the first truly international English-language author. Many vintage texts such as this are increasingly scarce and expensive, and it is with this in mind that we are republishing this book now, in an affordable, high-quality, modern edition. It comes complete with a specially commissioned biography of the author.

In ''Waverley'', Walter Scott expertly weaves a richly textured narrative that plunges readers into the heart of the Jacobite risings, blending historical fact with fiction. Written in an innovative style that marries romance and realism, Scott utilizes a first-person narrative that grants a profound psychological depth to his characters. The novel, a pioneering work of historical fiction, intricately details the protagonist Edward Waverley''s moral dilemmas, illuminating the complexities of loyalty and identity during a tumultuous period in Scottish history. Walter Scott, a Scottish historical novelist and poet, drew inspiration from his own experiences growing up amidst the remnants of Scotland''s feudal past. His profound interest in Scottish folklore and history not only informed his storytelling but also underscored his enviable ability to depict the transformative power of cultural heritage. ''Waverley'' stands as a cornerstone of Scott''s oeuvre, heralding a new genre and showcasing his nuanced understanding of national identity within a personal framework. ''I highly recommend ''Waverley'' to readers who seek a deeper understanding of Scottish history through engaging storytelling. Scott''s narrative not only captivates the imagination but also serves as an exploration of the human condition amid societal change, making it essential reading for both history enthusiasts and literary aficionados alike.''

In 1166, Sir Wilfred of Ivanhoe, a Saxon knight, returns from the Crusades to a chaotic England ruled by the enemies of the absent King Richard the Lion-Hearted. He finds himself disowned and dishonored, forced to fight for his name and the people he loves.