Teachers' outlines for studies in English, based on the requirements for admission to college

by Gilbert Sykes Blakely

Outline for the Study of Ivanhoe

I. Preparation

The class will probably be able to recall from their previous study of Scott some interesting facts about the author. They will understand the book better, too, if they are somewhat familiar with the following topics:

The Norman Conquest.
Ideals of Chivalry.
Conditions of the Church.
The Crusades.
Story of King Richard up to his return from the Crusades.

II. Reading and Study

There are advantages in a first rapid reading of the book before the more careful reading and class study, but for pupils unused to reading long books this is too much to ask in the case of Ivanhoe. The essential result to be attained in any event is familiarity with the details of the story.

III. Study of the Book as a Whole

Setting and Situation.—When did the events of the story take place?

Locate upon some map or, better, draw a map to indicate the position of Sheffield, Ashby, York, and the other places connected with the story. In the opening chapters there are various details of the situation that are more important than the actual time and place, for example, condition of the country, and the relations of the people. Make a list of them.