Ivanhoe

Ivanhoe is a 1997 American/British television mini-series based on the 1819 novel Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott. It was produced by the BBC and A&E Network and consisted of six 50 minute episodes. Plot This adaptation of Sir Walter Scott's novel is set in 1192 AD and depicts a disinherited knight who is accused of treachery. He returns anonymously to his home in England, to clear his name and win his lady love. King Richard had been a prisoner in an Austrian dungeon, but is now returning to an England ruled by Prince John. The production claims realism, mainly through a depiction of a very rough and poverty stricken time; the producers claim this is in contrast to earlier, "sanitized" versions. People wear layers of often old, sometimes ragged clothing to keep the cold out, are sometimes dirty, and have long shaggy hair and beards. TV episodes Episode 1: The knight and crusader Ivanhoe is released from an Austrian prison after refusing to betray King Richard. He returns to England, where it is rumored that he did betray the King. Ivanhoe must clear his name and save his beloved Rowena from a loveless marriage to Prince Athelstane. Disguised as a pilgrim, he comes to the aid of a stranger, Isaac of York, who offers Ivanhoe a chance to compete in Prince John's tournament.