Ivanhoe, Conquered

Ivanhoe - Sir Walter Scott, B+

After a long pull, I've made it through this classic historical novel. I can't say that I loved the experience, though neither did I dislike it.

"...imagine what a Snickers tastes like after having eaten a delicious mango or luscious nectarine."

Ivanhoe portrays 12th century England with a Romantic flair. As expected, the reader finds glaring hypocricies interposed with moments of chivalry; blind prejudices contrasted with holy sacrifices. One respects its hero, cherishes its heroine Rebecca, and laughs appropriately at the pomp and masquerading of "holy" men and royal officials. Scott has woven his tapestry using threads of legend, strands of history (though at times very inaccurately), and golden ribbons of romance to create a narrative that moves along at a moderate pace. Though I am susceptible to distraction, I was able to finish the book, which says something.

Overall, my response can best be described by imagining what a Snickers tastes like after having eaten a delicious mango or luscious nectarine. You enjoy the pastry, but not in the same way. Ivanhoe does not compare to works by C.S. Lewis or Homer, but certainly it far outpaces most modern fiction. It is a book that one reads because it seems everyone has read it; and it must be good if everyone has read it. While the book is worthy of no small praise, I would not recommend it to the casual reader, the reader looking for deep truths, or those with little time for frivolities.