The oak tree in Ivanhoe symbolizes strength, resilience, freedom, and Englishness. Oppressed Saxons, including both the servants Wamba and Gurth and freemen like Locksley, the Cleric of Copmanhurst, and their compatriots, gather under or near oaks. Their connection to ancient druid practices links them to the deep prehistory of England, too. Ivanhoe hints at his English—and specifically Saxon—identity when in disguise as the Disinherited Knight, whose shield features an uprooted oak tree. The uprooted tree specifically suggests Cedric’s unfair act of disinheriting and disowning his son. It also points towards the political divisions and tensions the book dramatizes between the native (Saxon) English population and the Norman (French) ruling class that conquered the island in the late 11th century. Through Templeton’s dedicatory letter and frequent asides, the book anticipates the glorious future of the English people who will one day arise from the union of Normans and Saxons. The oak forms part of his project by linking the past to the present. By invoking it as a symbol of English identity, Ivanhoe continually reminds its original English readers of their rich history, and—importantly—of the ways their ancestors’ lives can show them how to live upright lives in the present and overcome strife and division wherever it rears its head.
Oak Tree Quotes in Ivanhoe
Both the Saxon chiefs were made prisoners at the same moment, and each under circumstances expressive of his character. Cedric, the instant that an enemy appeared, launched at him his remaining javelin, which, taking better effect than that which he had hurled at Fangs, nailed the man against an oak-tree that happened to be close behind him. Thus far successful, Cedric spurred his horse against a second, drawing his sword at the same time, and striking with such inconsiderate fury, that his weapon encountered a thick branch which hung over him, and he was disarmed by the violence of his own blow. He was instantly made prisoner, and pulled from his horse by two or three of the banditti who crowded around him. Athelstane shared his captivity, his bridle having been sized, and he himself forcibly dismounted, long before he could draw his weapon, or assume any posture of effectual defense.
Oak Tree Symbol Timeline in Ivanhoe
