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57 pages 1 hour read

Lew Wallace

Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1880

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Ben-Hur: A Tale of the Christ by Lew Wallace follows Judah Ben-Hur, a Jewish nobleman, who is falsely accused of attempting to assassinate a Roman governor, leading to his enslavement and separation from his family. As he navigates a journey intertwined with the life of Jesus Christ, Ben-Hur seeks revenge but ultimately finds redemption and forgiveness. Topics include false imprisonment, enslavement, and illness.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Lew Wallace's Ben-Hur captivates with its grand historical setting and compelling narrative, resonating with themes of redemption and justice. Readers praise its detailed depiction of ancient Rome and the emotional depth of its characters. Some find its pacing uneven and language archaic, yet its enduring impact on adventure fiction remains undeniable.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ben-Hur?

Readers who relish epic historical novels filled with adventure, religious themes, and deep character development will enjoy Lew Wallace's Ben-Hur. Comparable to fans of Victor Hugo's Les Misérables or Alexandre Dumas's The Count of Monte Cristo, this classic blends rich historical context with a gripping narrative.

Book Details
Pages

380

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Roman Empire • 1st century

Theme
Publication Year

1880

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

14+ years

Lexile Level

990L

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