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Ivanhoe: A Romance
Ivanhoe: A Romance

Chapter XXXIV

Cover illustration for Ivanhoe: A Romance
Context Illustration Reading 1/29 · 5 lines
English subtitles · tap any word to listen 1 / 5
Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.
THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.
On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.
At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.
The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.
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LEARNER DICTIONARY
Archivist
/ˈɑːrkɪvɪst/
Editorial verification pending

A keeper or guardian of historical records and memories.

Ivanhoe: A Romance

Chapter XXXIV

Reading 1/29 · 5 reading units · Lines 1–5

Line 1
Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.
Line 2
THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.
Line 3
On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.
Line 4
At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.
Line 5
The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

Learner Dictionary

Oxford-style entry order: headword, part of speech, US IPA, concise definition, contextual example, audio, and collocations from this reading.

Already noun US /already/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.”

Ancient adjective US /ˈeɪn.ʃənt/

Belonging to the very distant past and no longer in existence or deeply revered.

From this reading “THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.”

Appearance noun US /ˈappearance/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading “The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.”

Before preposition US /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading “On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.”

Come noun US /come/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.”

Directly noun US /ˈdirectly/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading “On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.”

Duty noun US /ˈduːti/

a responsibility that must be carried out

From this reading “At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.”

Either determiner US /ˈiːðər/

one or the other of two

From this reading “The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.”

Great noun US /great/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.”

Hand noun US /hand/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.”

Have auxiliary verb US /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading “THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.”

Order noun US /order/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.”

Part noun US /part/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.”

Still noun US /still/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading “Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.”

These determiner US /ðiːz/

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading “The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.”

Thither adverb US /ˈðɪθɜːr/

an old word meaning “to that place”

From this reading “The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.”

Upon preposition US /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading “The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.”

Whose determiner US /huːz/

belonging to which person

From this reading “At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.”

All words in this reading · 136

Every word is available to listen to. Dictionary details are shown only when verified; these are not licensed Oxford entries.

adeterminerUS /ə/

used before a singular noun to mean one of a group, when it is not a particular one

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

accused

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

AGES

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

alreadynounUS /already/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

ample

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

andeterminerUS /æn/

the form of “a” used before a word that begins with a vowel sound

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

ancientadjectiveUS /ˈeɪn.ʃənt/

Belonging to the very distant past and no longer in existence or deeply revered.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

andconjunctionUS /ənd/

used to join words or parts of a sentence that go together

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

appearancenounUS /ˈappearance/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

asconjunctionUS /æz/

at the same time that; because; in the way that

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

AtprepositionUS /æt/

in or near a particular place or position

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

attend

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

attended

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

bade

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

bare

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

beauxiliary verbUS /biː/

used with a past participle to form the passive, or with -ing for continuous tenses

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

beforeprepositionUS /bɪˈfɔːr/

earlier than; in front of

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

black

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

bore

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

ButconjunctionUS /bʌt/

used to introduce something that contrasts with what came before

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

byprepositionUS /baɪ/

showing who or what does the action

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

call'd

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

chaplains

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

church-men

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

comenounUS /come/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

contrast

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

dais

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

day

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

demure

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

described

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

destined

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

directlynounUS /ˈdirectly/

a story-specific word describing an important person, object, action, or idea in this passage

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

distinguished

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

dresses

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

dutynounUS /ˈduːti/

a responsibility that must be carried out

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

eitherdeterminerUS /ˈiːðər/

one or the other of two

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

elevated

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

end

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

erected

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

feet

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

flowing

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

forprepositionUS /fɔːr/

intended to be given to, or used by, somebody

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

forbade

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

formal

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

formed

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

frank

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

full

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

God

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

Grand

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

greatnounUS /great/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

grieve

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

guests

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

hall

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

hand

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

harmless

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

haveauxiliary verbUS /hæv/

used with a past participle to form the perfect tenses

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

hearts

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

high

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

hisdeterminerUS /hɪz/

belonging to a man, boy, or male animal already mentioned

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

holding

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

honour

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

human

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

inprepositionUS /ɪn/

inside something, or within a place, period, or state

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

inhabitants

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

innocent

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

iron-rod

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

itpronounUS /ɪt/

a thing, animal, or idea already mentioned

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

itsdeterminerUS /ɪts/

belonging to the thing or animal already mentioned

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

knights

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From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

law

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From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

leave

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From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

looks

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From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

mansion

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From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

Master

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From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

MIDDLE

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From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

mirth

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From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

most

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

mystic

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From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

occupied

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

OfprepositionUS /ʌv/

belonging to, or connected with, somebody or something

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

OnprepositionUS /ɑːn/

touching and supported by a surface

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

orconjunctionUS /ɔːr/

used to join alternatives or possibilities

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

OrdernounUS /order/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

partnounUS /part/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

place

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

placed

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From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

platform

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

power

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

Preceptory

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From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

proceedings

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From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

Rebecca

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From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

record

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

reduce

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From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

residing

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

robes

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

sat

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

scalps

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From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

scribes

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

seat

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

shepronounUS /ʃiː/

a woman, girl, or female animal already mentioned, as the subject

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

shook

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

smile

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

staff

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

Stern

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

sterner

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

stillnounUS /still/

an important story-specific word used in this passage

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

strong

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

symbol

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

table

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

Temple

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

thatconjunctionUS /ðæt/

used to introduce what somebody said, thought, or felt

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

thedeterminerUS /ðə/

used before a noun that is already known, already mentioned, or the only one of its kind

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

theirdeterminerUS /ðer/

belonging to the people or things already mentioned

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

thesedeterminerUS /ðiːz/

the plural of “this”: the people or things near, or just mentioned

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

thitheradverbUS /ˈðɪθɜːr/

an old word meaning “to that place”

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

toparticleUS /tuː/

used before the base form of a verb to make the infinitive

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

trial

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

Tribunal

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

two

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

tyrant

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

unhappy

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

uponprepositionUS /əˈpɑːn/

a formal word for “on”

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

upper

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

vot'ries

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

warlike

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

wasauxiliary verbUS /wɑːz/

the past form of “be” used with I, he, she, it, or a singular noun

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

wepronounUS /wiː/

the speaker together with one or more other people

From this reading THE MIDDLE AGES The Tribunal, erected for the trial of the innocent and unhappy Rebecca, occupied the dais or elevated part of the upper end of the great hall—a platform, which we have already described as the place of honour, destined to be occupied by the most distinguished inhabitants or guests of an ancient mansion.

whenconjunctionUS /wen/

at the time that

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

whichpronounUS /wɪtʃ/

used to introduce a clause giving more about a thing just mentioned

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

white

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading On an elevated seat, directly before the accused, sat the Grand Master of the Temple, in full and ample robes of flowing white, holding in his hand the mystic staff, which bore the symbol of the Order.

whopronounUS /huː/

which person or people

From this reading The black dresses, bare scalps, and demure looks of these church-men, formed a strong contrast to the warlike appearance of the knights who attended, either as residing in the Preceptory, or as come thither to attend upon their Grand Master.

whosedeterminerUS /huːz/

belonging to which person

From this reading At his feet was placed a table, occupied by two scribes, chaplains of the Order, whose duty it was to reduce to formal record the proceedings of the day.

wile

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

winning

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

withprepositionUS /wɪð/

in the company of; together with

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.

woes

Dictionary entry pending editorial verification. Tap Listen to hear the word.

From this reading Stern was the law which bade its vot’ries leave At human woes with human hearts to grieve; Stern was the law, which at the winning wile Of frank and harmless mirth forbade to smile; But sterner still, when high the iron-rod Of tyrant power she shook, and call’d that power of God.