Dr. Eleanor Janega and Dr. Kate Lister dive into the fascinating life of Joan of Arc, a 17-year-old peasant girl who defied societal norms to lead the French army. They discuss her divine visions and how they propelled her to defend France against the English. The conversation highlights her strategic impact in battle and how wearing men's clothes challenged gender expectations of the time. They also examine her tragic fall and lasting legacy on French identity, exploring why Joan remains a symbol of courage and faith.
Joan of Arc, inspired by divine visions, emerged as a powerful military leader, challenging gender norms and rallying French forces against the English.
Her tragic fate following capture and execution highlighted the fragility of her status and transformed her into a lasting symbol of French nationalism and martyrdom.
Deep dives
Joan of Arc's Rise to Power
Joan of Arc emerged as a formidable leader during the Hundred Years' War, beginning her journey at just 13 years old when she started experiencing visions of saints, including St. Michael. These visions directed her to liberate France from English control and inspired her to take on a military role typically reserved for men. Despite her humble peasant origins, she convinced the male-dominated military and political establishment of her divine mission. By 17, she had gained the trust of influential military leaders and even met with the Dauphin, where she was given armor and a banner, symbolizing her acceptance as a legitimate military figure.
Military Campaigns and Achievements
Joan's leadership was characterized by her ability to rally troops and inspire hope during a time of despair for France. Her presence on the battlefield served as a morale booster, and her unconventional strategies led to key victories against the English, including the Siege of Orléans. Joan's direct involvement and her proclamation that God was guiding her actions uniquely positioned her as a pivotal figure in the war effort. Her ultimate goal was to have Charles VII crowned as King of France, and her successful push to Reims for his coronation solidified her legacy as a national hero.
The Downfall and Capture of Joan of Arc
Joan's fortunes shifted dramatically after the coronation of Charles VII, as the new king's more cautious approach to warfare conflicted with her aggressive strategies. She pushed for continued attacks against the English and Burgundians but faced criticism when these efforts ultimately failed, particularly in the failed attempt to take Paris. During this tumultuous period, Joan was captured by the Burgundians in 1430, who sold her to the English, marking the end of her active military career. Despite her bravery, her capture illustrated the fragility of her status, as she became a pawn in the ongoing political struggles of the time.
Trial, Martyrdom, and Legacy
Joan of Arc was subjected to a politically motivated trial by the English, where she faced accusations of heresy and witchcraft, ultimately leading to her execution at the stake. Despite the wrongful nature of her trial, it stoked the fires of French nationalism and galvanized support against English rule. Her trial and martyrdom became a rallying point for the French people, ultimately aiding in their victory over England in the Hundred Years' War. Over time, Joan was canonized as a saint, and her legacy endures as a symbol of courage, faith, and the fight for justice, inspiring generations long after her death.
How did a peasant girl go on to lead French armies at the age of 17? How did her visions of saving France from the English play a part in her life? Why was it significant that she wore men's clothes and led armies? And what is her legacy today?
In this episode of Gone Medieval, Dr. Eleanor Janega pops across to our sister podcast Betwixt the Sheets to discuss the life of the formidable Joan of Arc with Dr. Kate Lister.
This episode was edited and produced by Stuart Beckwith and Rob Weinberg. The senior producers are Charlotte Long and Anne-Marie Luff.
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