"When considering early feminist figures, Joan of Arc is often one of the first names that come to mind."
"Joan of Arc stands as a powerful figure, celebrated as a patron saint and one of history's most renowned female heroes."
"While she is widely recognized, many younger generations are not fully aware of her story. They often only know that she was a martyr, met a tragic end, and was known for her iconic bob hairstyle."
"Unfamiliar with Joan of Arc? Here's a quick overview of the remarkable French heroine and her legacy."
Joan of Arc, also known as Jeanne d’Arc, was born around 1412 in the northeastern region of France. She came from a humble background, being the daughter of a tenant farmer.
"Instead of receiving a formal education during her childhood, she spent much of her early years learning about the Catholic church under her mother's guidance."
"During this period, France became engaged in the Hundred Years' War, a well-known series of battles and conflicts with England that took place in the late Middle Ages."
"In the early 1420s, when Henry VI took control of both kingdoms, numerous villages, such as Joan's, were occupied, leading to residents being displaced from their homes."
"Some experts suggest that Joan of Arc may have experienced mental health issues, as she reportedly began hearing voices in her teenage years, which she believed were divine messages from God."
“She felt divinely inspired to defeat France’s adversaries and help restore Charles VII, the rightful heir, to the French throne.”
In the late 1420s, Joan of Arc embarked on a journey to inspire and mobilize Charles VII’s supporters, positioning herself as the heroic figure poised to rescue France.
"Once she attracted a following, she transformed her look with a distinctive short bob haircut and started wearing men’s clothing. Determined, she set out to meet Charles and persuade him to allow her to lead the fight for France."
"Despite his advisors' doubts about Joan, Charles had faith in her abilities and dispatched her with a relief army to confront the English during the siege of Orléans in 1429."
Joan's brave leadership in the battle ensured a French victory, establishing her as a formidable warrior. Shortly afterward, Charles was crowned as King Charles VII.
"Later that year, Joan participated in the failed attempt to capture Paris, which was under the control of the English and Burgundians."
"In 1430, Charles dispatched Joan to combat Burgundian forces in Compiègne."
"During the defense of the town, Joan was unseated from her horse and subsequently taken captive by the opposing forces."
"Joan faced a trial where she was accused of multiple charges, including witchcraft, cross-dressing, and spreading rumors. Despite her significant contributions to his cause, King Charles VII made little effort to secure her release, choosing to distance himself from her plight."
"In 1431, Joan of Arc defied her previous pledge by continuing to wear male attire, which led to her being sentenced to death. At the age of just 19, Joan was executed by burning at the stake in May 1431."
“Joan of Arc, despite her tragic death, left a lasting impact that continues to resonate. Canonized by Pope Benedict XV in 1920, her remarkable life as a pioneer who challenged societal expectations and steadfastly upheld her convictions has inspired a wealth of significant cultural and artistic expressions.”