Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc, also known as Jeanne d'Arc, was a peasant girl from eastern France who played a significant role during the Hundred Years' War. Born around 1412 in the village of Domrémy, Joan claimed to have received visions from Archangel Michael, Saint Margaret, and Saint Catherine, instructing her to support Charles VII and recover France from English domination.
Early Life
Joan grew up in a deeply religious environment, and her early life was unremarkable until her divine visions began around the age of 13. These visions inspired her to seek out Charles VII, then the Dauphin of France, to aid him in reclaiming his throne from the English and the Burgundians.
Military Campaigns
- Meeting with Charles VII: In 1429, Joan traveled to Chinon where she met Charles VII. Her conviction and the political situation led Charles to allow her to accompany his army.
- Siege of Orléans: Joan's presence at the Siege of Orléans turned the tide for the French forces, leading to the lifting of the siege on May 8, 1429, which was a significant victory.
- Coronation of Charles VII: Following the victory at Orléans, Joan was instrumental in ensuring Charles was crowned King of France at Reims on July 17, 1429.
- Subsequent Battles: Joan continued to lead French troops in several engagements, but her luck began to wane. She was wounded at the Battle of Compiègne in May 1430.
Capture, Trial, and Execution
Captured by Burgundian forces allied with the English, Joan was sold to the English for 10,000 livres. She was then tried for heresy by an ecclesiastical court in Rouen, controlled by the English. Despite her courageous defense and her claim of divine guidance, she was convicted, primarily due to her insistence on wearing men's clothing, which was deemed scandalous at the time. On May 30, 1431, Joan was burned at the stake in Rouen, at the age of about 19.
Legacy
- Canonization: Joan was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1920, recognizing her as a martyr and a symbol of French unity and nationalism.
- Symbolism: She remains an enduring symbol of French patriotism, courage, and piety. Her story has been depicted in numerous works of art, literature, and film.
- Impact on History: Her influence extended beyond her lifetime; her military successes helped pave the way for the eventual French victory in the Hundred Years' War.
References
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