Dive into the gripping trial of Joan of Arc, where heresy accusations turned into a political spectacle. Explore the bizarre obsession with her clothing choices and how her visions were scrutinized. Discover the conflict between personal beliefs and institutional authority that shaped her fate. The discussion weaves in comparisons to Socrates and the trials of history's iconic figures, shedding light on the enduring impact of these events on justice and identity.
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insights INSIGHT
Joan's Trial as Political Drama
Joan of Arc's trial was a political show trial and a real drama that has inspired great plays.
Her trial shares similarities with Socrates' trial, especially in the foreordained guilty outcomes.
insights INSIGHT
Innocence in Denial of Charges
Both Socrates and Joan couldn't concede the accusations without betraying their true selves.
Joan couldn't say she'd always been this person since she was 19 and unknown previously.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Pope's Brother Childhood Anecdote
David Runciman shares an interview anecdote about the new Pope's brother recalling childhood games.
The brother teased that the young boy would be Pope, which later came true, showing a personal divine narrative.
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George Bernard Shaw's play 'Saint Joan' explores the life and trial of Joan of Arc, a young French peasant girl who led the French army to victory in the 15th century. The play delves into the political and religious complexities of Joan's trial for heresy. Shaw examines themes of faith, individualism, and the conflict between personal conviction and institutional authority. Joan's unwavering belief in her divine mission clashes with the established norms of the Church and the state. The play culminates in Joan's tragic execution, portraying her as a martyr for her beliefs and a symbol of independent thought.
A Man for All Seasons
Robert BOLT
The play, written by Robert Bolt, depicts the final years of Sir Thomas More, the 16th-century Lord Chancellor of England. It explores More's principled stance against King Henry VIII's desire to divorce Catherine of Aragon and his refusal to sign the Oath of Supremacy, declaring Henry the Supreme Head of the Church of England. The play delves into themes of conscience, identity, and the conflict between personal beliefs and political pressures. It follows More's journey from his position of power to his eventual execution, highlighting his unwavering commitment to his principles despite the severe consequences[4][5][1].
Apology
Plato
Plato's *Apology* is a historical and philosophical account of Socrates' defense at his trial in 399 BCE. Socrates was charged with corrupting the youth and impiety, but instead of apologizing, he defended his actions as a philosopher, emphasizing his commitment to truth and virtue. The dialogue captures Socrates' fearless reasoning and his reflections on mortality, leading to his eventual sentencing to death by drinking hemlock.
Today’s political trial took place in 1431 though it was still being re-litigated right through to the twentieth century: the case of Joan of Arc, charged with heresy by the Church and burned at the stake. Why was a political prisoner tried in an ecclesiastical court? Why were her interrogators so obsessed by her choice in clothes? How did Joan seek to explain her visions? And was this trial any more of a fix than the later trials that exonerated her?
Available now on PPF+: Socrates part 2, in which David explores the verdict of history on this case and the fierce arguments it still inspires. Sign up now to get this and all our bonus episodes plus ad-free listening https://www.ppfideas.com/join-ppf-plus
Next time in Politics on Trial: Thomas More vs the King
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