The Fascinating Journey Behind the Creation of the Epic Masterpiece - Ben Hur

Ben Hur, a timeless classic and one of the greatest literary works of all time, has captivated readers and moviegoers for over a century. But have you ever wondered about the story behind this epic tale? In this article, we will delve deep into the intriguing journey and inspiration that led to the creation of Ben Hur.

Early Beginnings

It all started with the brilliant mind of Lew Wallace, a renowned American lawyer, military officer, and author. As a young boy, Wallace always had a knack for storytelling. His vivid imagination and passion for history set the foundation for his remarkable career as a writer.

Wallace's fascination with ancient civilizations and biblical stories began shaping his work. However, it wasn't until a chance encounter that his journey towards Ben Hur truly began.

How I Came to Write Ben-Hur

by James Barnes (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1927 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	11 pages
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An Encounter that Changed Everything

In the late 1850s, Wallace met a man named Dr. Richard M. Johnson during a steamboat journey. Dr. Johnson, the Vice President of the United States at the time, challenged Wallace's skeptical views on religion and inspired him to explore the wonders of faith.

This encounter sparked within Wallace a newfound curiosity about Christianity, which later became a crucial element in the development of Ben Hur.

The Journey to Research and Write

Driven by an insatiable desire to learn, Wallace embarked on an extensive research journey that took him from libraries to archaeological sites. He studied ancient documents, traveled to the Holy Land, and immersed himself in the history and culture of the time.

Years of meticulous research formed the foundation of Wallace's historical novel. His vivid descriptions of ancient Rome, the Jewish culture, and the life of Jesus Christ culminated in the magnificent story of Ben Hur.

The Inspiration Behind the Characters

While Wallace's research was crucial, it was the people he encountered throughout his life who profoundly influenced the characters in Ben Hur. From humble individuals striving for greatness to those battling personal demons, each character reflected the human experience and the various facets of existence.

Wallace's own personal experiences and the people he met seamlessly found their way into the lives of Judah Ben Hur, Messala, Esther, and all the other compelling characters that breathe life into the story.

The Impact of "Ben Hur"

When Ben Hur was finally published in 1880, its impact was immediate and monumental. The sweeping tale of revenge, redemption, and faith resonated deeply with readers around the world.

Ben Hur not only became an instant bestseller but also left a lasting mark on the literary and cinematic world. The novel has been adapted into several successful films, notably the 1959 movie starring Charlton Heston, which went on to win a record-breaking eleven Academy Awards.

Ben Hur stands as a testament to the extraordinary journey of Lew Wallace. From a chance encounter that ignited his passion for religion to years of research and storytelling, Wallace's unwavering dedication led to the creation of an unforgettable masterpiece.

So, the next time you dive into the pages of Ben Hur or watch the grandeur unfold on the silver screen, remember the incredible journey that brought it to life. It is more than just a story – it is the result of one man's unwavering determination to share a timeless tale with the world.

How I Came to Write Ben-Hur

by James Barnes (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1927 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	11 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

There are a lot of urban legends about how why General Lew Wallace wrote his religious epic novel Ben-Hur. The fact is, he was not an atheist setting out to prove Christianity wrong. He did not write Ben-Hur on a bet. The truth is this: after a conversation on the train with noted agnostic Robert Ingersoll, Wallace was prompted to explore the religion he had always vaguely believed in.

In this ebook, the words of Lew Wallace himself, excerpted from his autobiography, explain how and why he wrote Ben-Hur.