The novel is set in the Medieval Period, a time when chivalry and romance were highly valued in European society. Scott explores the ideals of chivalry and romance through characters such as Ivanhoe, King Richard, Bois-Guilbert, and others. Though these men all have similar values—especially courage, loyalty, and the celebration of love—they also disagree on many of the finer points of what chivalry and romance mean. Richard’s notion of chivalry, for instance, prizes mercy, as demonstrated by the way he deals with the treacherous Prince John, de Bracy, and Fitzurse (that is, by exiling them rather than executing them). Ivanhoe, meanwhile, takes it upon himself to use his strength and power to defend the powerless, as when he saves Isaac from being kidnapped by Bois-Guilbert. Bois-Guilbert, on the other hand, has a much more selfish view of chivalry, constantly looking out for himself and in one episode even leaving the wounded Ivanhoe to die in the burning castle of Torquilstone, saying that “a knight […] must encounter his fate” (266).

Just as different characters approach the code of chivalry in different ways, they also adopt different views toward love and romance. Ivanhoe especially exemplifies the devoted and loyal lover, staying true to Rowena even when he is banished by his father.