Joan of Arc, The Lightning Girl Who Changed French History. This might sound like the title of an epic movie, but its a historical reality that happened in the 15th century. Joan of Arc, or Jeanne d’Arc in French, is a French national hero who became a symbol of faith, courage, and determination. Born into a simple peasant family, Joan grew into a religious girl with strong spiritual visions. These visions led her to a sacred mission: to save France from English control during the Hundred Years War.
Childhood in Domremy
Joan was born in 1412 in the village of Domremy, located in the Lorraine region of northeastern France. She was the youngest of five children, raised in a religious peasant family. During her childhood, Joan helped her parents tend sheep and with household chores. Although she never learned to read or write, Joan was known to be very religious and often spent time praying at the local church.
France during Joan’s childhood was in a very worrying situation. The Hundred Years War between France and England had been going on for several generations, causing destruction and suffering everywhere. Most of northern France, including Paris, had been controlled by the English and their Burgundian allies. Meanwhile, the legitimate heir to the throne, Charles VII, had not yet been crowned king due to various political and military conflicts.
Visions and Sacred Mission
At age 13, Joan began having spiritual experiences that changed her life forever. She claimed to hear voices from Saint Michael, Saint Catherine, and Saint Margaret who gave her messages and guidance. Initially, these voices only told her to be diligent in worship and obedient to the church. However, over time, the message became clearer: Joan was tasked with saving France from English occupation and ensuring Charles VII was crowned as the legitimate king.
At age 16, Joan decided to take action. She asked her uncle to take her to Vaucouleurs, the nearest town still loyal to Charles VII. There, she met with Robert de Baudricourt, the local garrison commander. Initially, Baudricourt dismissed this village girl who claimed to receive messages from God. However, Joan’s extraordinary perseverance and conviction eventually convinced him to provide an escort that would take Joan to Charles VII’s court at Chinon.
Journey to Chinon and Meeting with Charles VII
After a dangerous journey of more than 500 kilometers through enemy territory, Joan finally arrived at Chinon Castle in February 1429. Charles VII, still doubtful of Joan’s claims, disguised himself as a guard when they first met. But Joan immediately recognized him and reportedly whispered something that convinced Charles of the authenticity of her mission.
To verify Joan claims, Charles ordered theologians to examine her at Poitiers. After three weeks of intense examination, the scholars concluded they found nothing wrong with Joan and recommended that Charles use her. Joan was then entrusted with troops and sent to help the siege of Orléans, a city that had been besieged by the English for months.
Key Events in Joan Life
- 1412 – Born in Domrémy, France
- 1425 – Begins hearing divine voices
- 1429 – Meets Charles VII and leads forces to victory at Orléans
- 1429 – Charles VII crowned King of France at Reims
- 1430 – Captured by Burgundian forces
- 1431 – Tried for heresy and burned at the stake in Rouen
- 1920 – Canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church
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Victory at Orléans and Path to Coronation
Joan’s arrival at Orléans in late April 1429 brought dramatic changes to the morale of the French troops. Carrying her famous white banner and wearing full armor, Joan led attacks against English fortifications around the city. In just nine days, French forces managed to recapture all English positions and liberate Orléans.
The victory at Orléans became a turning point in the Hundred Years War. Joan, now nicknamed “Maid of Orléans,” gained great fame and influence. She then convinced Charles to march to Reims, the traditional coronation site of French kings, even though the city was in enemy territory. In a brilliant Loire campaign, Joan and her troops successfully defeated the English in several important battles, opening the way to Reims.
Coronation of Charles VII and Subsequent Missions
On July 17, 1429, Charles VII was finally crowned King of France at Reims Cathedral, with Joan standing beside him holding her banner. This was the pinnacle of Joan’s mission, which she had completed in just a few months since leaving Domremy. After the coronation, Joan urged Charles to immediately recapture Paris, but the newly crowned king preferred diplomatic channels.
In September 1429, Joan led an attack on Paris, but injuries she sustained and lack of support from Charles forced the French troops to retreat. During the following months, Joan continued to participate in small scale military operations, although her influence at court began to fade.
Betrayal, Capture, and Trial
In May 1430, during fighting at Compiegne, Joan was caught in a troop withdrawal and captured by Burgundian forces allied with the English. After several months of imprisonment, she was sold to the English for a large price. Charles VII, who owed his throne to Joan, made no serious effort to free her.
The English, angry at their defeats caused by Joan, were determined to destroy her. They organized a church trial in Rouen, charging her with various accusations including heresy and witchcraft. The trial led by Bishop Pierre Cauchon was clearly unfair and full of manipulation. During the trial, Joan showed extraordinary intelligence and determination, defending her visions and mission with firm conviction.
Execution and Lasting Legacy
After a long and exhausting trial process, Joan was finally found guilty and sentenced to death. On May 30, 1431, at the very young age of 19, Joan was burned at the stake at Place du Vieux-Marché in Rouen. According to eyewitnesses, she died bravely, holding a cross and calling out the name of Jesus.
Joan’s execution did not end her influence. Instead, her death inspired the French people to continue fighting. In the next two decades, France managed to reclaim almost all its territory from England, ending the Hundred Years War with victory.
In 1456, a retrial organized by Pope Callixtus III overturned the Rouen trial verdict and declared Joan innocent. Joan of Arc was beatified in 1909 and canonized as a saint in 1920 by Pope Benedict XV. Her memorial day is celebrated every May 30.
Joan of Arc in History and Popular Culture
Joan of Arc’s legacy lives on to this day. She became a symbol of French nationalism, female courage, and religious faith. Her story has inspired many works of art, literature, film, and music. From Shakespeare to Voltaire, from Mark Twain to George Bernard Shaw, many writers have been fascinated by her story.
In the military world, Joan of Arc is recognized as a brilliant strategist despite having no formal training. Her ability to lead troops and make tactical decisions on the battlefield is still studied today. She has also become a powerful feminist icon, showing that women can play important roles in history and society.
Lessons from Joan of Arcs Life
Joan of Arc’s story teaches us about the power of faith, courage, and perseverance. Although from a simple background, she did not let circumstances limit her. Her firm belief in her visions and mission enabled her to achieve impossible things.
Joan also teaches us about the importance of holding to principles and truth, even when facing great opposition and danger. At her unfair trial, she maintained her beliefs and did not sacrifice her integrity. Her heroic death became an eternal testimony to courage and faith.
To this day, Joan of Arc continues to inspire people around the world to fight for what they believe is right, to overcome obstacles with courage, and to never underestimate the power of one dedicated individual to change the course of history.