Ivanhoe (1997 TV series)
A gritty 1997 adaptation of Scott's medieval romance.
Ivanhoe is a 1997 American/British television mini-series produced by the BBC and A&E Network, based on Sir Walter Scott's 1819 novel. It consists of six 50-minute episodes set in 1192 AD, depicting a disinherited knight accused of treachery who returns anonymously to England to clear his name and win his lady love. The production emphasizes realism through a rough, poverty-stricken depiction of the era, contrasting with earlier sanitized versions.
- field
- Television mini-series
- nationality
- American/British
- known_for
- Adaptation of Sir Walter Scott's novel Ivanhoe
- episodes
- 6
- runtime
- 50 minutes per episode
- producers
- BBC and A&E Network
Lore & Background
The series follows Ivanhoe, a knight and crusader released from an Austrian prison after refusing to betray King Richard. He returns to England, where rumors accuse him of betrayal, and must clear his name while saving his beloved Rowena from a forced marriage to Prince Athelstane. Disguised as a pilgrim, he aids Isaac of York and competes in Prince John's tournament, defeating Norman knights and earning the prince's enmity. The Black Knight, later revealed as King Richard, joins Ivanhoe against the Normans.
Reader's Guide
The 1997 Ivanhoe mini-series is significant for its deliberate departure from earlier romanticized portrayals of the medieval period. The producers claimed realism through depictions of ragged clothing, dirt, and long hair, aiming to show a harsh, poverty-stricken time. The series features a notable cast and experts including a historical advisor and Judaica advisor. Filmed at Scottish castles such as Doune, Hermitage, Craigmillar, and Blackness, it was released on VHS and DVD. Its legacy lies in its attempt to ground a classic story in gritty authenticity, influencing later historical drama productions.
Did You Know?
- The series was produced by the BBC and A&E Network.
- It was filmed at Doune Castle, Hermitage Castle, Craigmillar Castle, and Blackness Castle in Scotland.
- The production claimed realism through depictions of ragged clothing, dirt, and long hair.
- The series includes a Judaica advisor, Lewis Glinert.
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