Since characterization holds such an important place in this book, it might be well to note the three standard methods of characterization as they apply to Ivanhoe: what the author says about the person, what others say about him or her (and other modes of reaction), and what the person says and does. The first of the modes of bringing a character to life is the one upon which Scott is criticized most often and most severely—he is accused of not getting into the "heart" of the character, not analyzing the inner workings of the person's mind and emotions. While Ivanhoe does not possess the psychological depth of some of his other works (including The Heart of Midlothian and The Bride of Lammermoor), Sir Walter does offer characters whose natures are represented clearly (it should be noted that people in that time and place and historical...