The Original Girl Power - Jeanne d'Arc
- Parisian Niche
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
Who run the world? Well, sadly, in ye olden days, women were not at the forefront (and just look at this mess!) I jest, I jest... Jokes aside, Jeanne d'Arc or Joan of Arc, stands as one of history's most compelling figures. Let's jump in the P'Niche Time Travel Machine (where is my trademark?!) and take a P'Niche peek to learn more...
Our Leading Lady, Joan, was born circa 1412 in Domrémy, a small village in the Grand Est region in northeastern France. A humble girl by birth, her faith was rich.
At that time, France was engaged in the Hundred Years' War against England—a conflict that drained the nation's resources and morale.
This gruesome war not only unsettled the political landscape but also fractured the social fabric of the country.
This war saw five generations of kings (from two rival dynasties - because why not?) battling it out for the throne of France - the most wealthy and populous kingdom within western Europe.
So, imagine Game of Thrones (Copyright HarperCollins) but localized to France. Pack the baguettes, leave the dragons - we've got a throne to secure!
We're at the point where King Henry V is kicking tush and taking names, when...
(please imagine fancy trumpet sounds!)...
Enter Joan! Her path to prominence began at just 16 years old when she approached Charles VII.
At first, she faced skepticism, but her unwavering determination soon captured the attention of court officials.
To prove the validity of her mission, Joan underwent several tests, and notably, she passed them all with remarkable confidence, feeling a divine calling to support Charles VII, the Dauphin of France.
Joan claimed to have experienced visions and messages from saints, convincing her that God had chosen her to lead the French army to victory.
This deep and true belief became her guiding force and set her on an extraordinary path. You Go Joan!
The pivotal moment in her journey came in 1429, when Joan joined the French army in Orléans. The city had been under siege by the English for months, and morale was low. Joan's triumphant arrival sparked renewed hope. Within just a few days, the siege was lifted in a stunning victory for the French. More than a figurehead, Joan's influence invigorated the troops and turned the tide in their favor.
Following this success, Joan's influence over Charles VII became undeniable. She played a crucial role in his coronation at Reims in July 1429, which not only legitimized his claim to the throne but also marked a major turning point in the war. This stunning event showcased how one young woman could affect the course of history dramatically. What could go wrong?!
Record Scratch!
Despite her many triumphs, Joan's luck changed after she was captured by the Burgundians, a faction allied with the English, in 1430.
Her trial became a politically charged spectacle, driven by enemies eager to tarnish her reputation. Accused of heresy, witchcraft, and the crime of "cross-dressing," due to her choice of male armor, she faced an unfair judicial process. Boooo!
This joke of a trial lacked even the fundamental principles of justice.
Yet, Joan’s remarkable spirit shone even in the bleakest circumstances. She stuck to her beliefs and defended herself vigorously, but the powers against her were formidable.
Ultimately, and not surprisingly, Joan of Arc was found guilty and burned at the stake on May 30, 1431, at only 19 years old.
But - get this!
The public outrage that followed Joan's execution led to a retrial in 1456, which completely cleared her of the charges.
This posthumous verdict emphasized Joan's status not just as a victim, but also as a martyr, shifting her legacy from that of a controversial figure to a solid symbol of resilience and courage. Hashtag Justice!
Enter the Catholic Church - well, better late than never anyway...
Joan's transition from martyrdom to sainthood further highlights her lasting influence. In 1920, nearly five centuries after her death, the Catholic Church canonized her, recognizing her as a saint.
Joan of Arc's canonization brought forward various aspects of her character that defy easy categorization. Though she began life as a peasant, her story speaks to universal themes of faith, perseverance, and sacrifice.
As a patron saint of soldiers and France, Joan became deeply rooted in the cultural identity of her beloved nation.
However, debates about her sometimes idealized legacy continue. Some depict her solely as a religious figure, while others point out her military and political savvy. This duality is integral to her myth versus reality legacy, illustrating the interplay between faith and leadership during turbulent times.
In modern times, Joan of Arc's life has evolved beyond historical events to become a powerful symbol in literature, art, and film.
Joan of Arc's legacy is intricately woven into the fabric of French identity and has resonated across the globe. Her story touches upon themes of faith, persistence, and the complexities of heroism.
To honor her contributions, France has named countless educational institutions, erected monuments, and holds annual celebrations in her name. You won't have to look far to find a stature in her honor (P'Niche and mom's fave - hi Mom! - is the statue on the rue de Rivoli)
Each year, the procession on her feast day, May 30th, underscores her continuing relevance as a national symbol.
Examining the life and legacy of Joan of Arc reveals the ongoing complexity and conversation of separating myth from reality.
While Joan's extraordinary story has sparked countless narratives of bravery, tenacity, and spirituality, understanding her multidimensional character is crucial for fully appreciating her impact. Joan embodies the themes of faith, courage, and the quest for justice... qualities most of us women have and take for granted. Girl Power - our most mighty trait!
I picked up this gem on my most recent visit to le Musée de Cluny and it's been a really interesting and inspiring read. We'll definitely be reading this one in our book club - the Parisian Page Turners.
Hey, come read with us!
So, what do you say, P'Nicher? Who is your favorite French hero / heroine or who would you like to learn more about? Let us know in the comments below et à bientôt!
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Can you imagine the fear/hatred those men had to burn a 19-year-old woman?