Ivanhoe, Chapter 39 summary
Chapter 39 of 44 · 20 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 39, Brian de Bois-Guilbert offers to abandon his rank and save Rebecca if she accepts him as her lover, but she refuses to bargain away her principles. After their painful farewell, Albert de Malvoisin uses threats of disgrace to secure Bois-Guilbert’s agreement to appear against her in the lists.
What happens
- Rebecca finishes her evening prayers before Bois-Guilbert enters her prison and argues that he does not intend her suffering.
- He reveals that he sends the message advising her to demand a champion and originally plans to fight for her himself.
- Bois-Guilbert offers to sacrifice his standing and escape with Rebecca if she accepts his love, but she refuses.
- Rebecca defends her faith and ancestry, challenges his excuses about fate, and forgives him before he leaves.
- Malvoisin warns Bois-Guilbert that resistance brings imprisonment or dishonor and insists that another knight can still secure Rebecca’s death.
- Bois-Guilbert agrees to enter the lists, while Malvoisin watches closely to prevent another change of purpose.
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Ivanhoe: A Romance, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
In this chapter
What to notice
Rebecca distinguishes genuine mercy from a bargain serving the rescuer’s desires. Her demand exposes the selfish condition behind Bois-Guilbert’s offer.
Quick check
What finally persuades Bois-Guilbert to agree to appear in the lists?
Free for 3 months
Get the full summary of Ivanhoe: A Romance, free
- 200,000+ classics as eBooks, audiobooks and 15-minute summaries, and print and large print at cost
- Up to 5 readers in your home on one plan
Start freeNothing to pay today. USD 0.14 a day in the first year, then USD 0.27 a day.
200,000+ classics to read, hear and hold
15-minute summaries today, eBooks and audiobooks as each book opens, and printed books, large print included, at cost.
Try 3 months free
