Gone Medieval
The Real Joan of Arc
Aug 13, 2024
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.
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Quick takeaways
- 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.
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