Ben Hur: A Tale of the Christ

“Ben-Hur” is the remarkable saga of betrayal, revenge, and redemption, played out in the bloodstained arenas of ancient Rome. Framed for attempting to murder a Roman official, Ben-Hur is robbed of his freedom, family, and fortune. Condemned to death as a galley slave, he lives only to avenge himself against the Roman tribune Messala–the boyhood friend who betrayed him. “Ben-Hur” vividly recreates the sweep of Imperial Rome–from a thrilling sea battle, to the famous chariot race, to the agony of the Crucifixion. It is the moving, personal tale of the prince who became a slave and then–through a unique twist of fate–was able to fight his way back to the free world as a champion gladiator. Written by the territorial governor of New Mexico, “Ben-Hur” was an immediate bestseller upon its release in 1880–selling over two million copies–and continues to be an enduring classic. 558 pages.