key term - Joan of Arc

Definition

Joan of Arc was a French peasant girl who claimed to have received divine guidance to support Charles VII and lead the French army during the Hundred Years' War against England. Her actions significantly boosted French morale and played a crucial role in the eventual victory over the English, symbolizing national unity and religious fervor in 15th-century France.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Joan was born around 1412 in Domrémy, France, into a peasant family and began experiencing visions at the age of 13 that she believed were from saints.
2. In 1429, she convinced Charles VII to let her lead an army to lift the siege of Orléans, which resulted in a significant French victory.
3. Joan was captured by Burgundian forces in May 1430, then handed over to the English, who put her on trial for heresy and witchcraft.
4. She was executed by burning at the stake on May 30, 1431, at the age of 19, but her legacy inspired future generations in France and beyond.
5. In 1920, Joan of Arc was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, symbolizing her importance as a national heroine and a figure of faith.

Review Questions

• How did Joan of Arc's leadership impact the French military during the Hundred Years' War?
  • Joan of Arc's leadership had a profound impact on the French military during the Hundred Years' War. By rallying troops and inspiring them with her conviction and faith, she revitalized morale among soldiers who had faced years of defeat. Her most notable achievement was leading the French army to lift the siege of Orléans, which marked a turning point in the war. This victory not only boosted French confidence but also paved the way for Charles VII's coronation.
• Evaluate the significance of Joan of Arc's trial and execution in terms of political and religious implications for France.
  • Joan of Arc's trial and execution were significant events with profound political and religious implications for France. Her trial was politically motivated, aimed at discrediting her influence on Charles VII and undermining his claim to the throne. The charges against her were largely based on her wearing male military attire and claiming divine guidance. Her martyrdom ultimately transformed her into a symbol of French nationalism and piety, strengthening the resolve against English occupation and unifying the French people under a common cause.
• Analyze how Joan of Arc's legacy influenced both French nationalism and the perception of women in leadership roles throughout history.
  • Joan of Arc's legacy has had lasting effects on both French nationalism and the perception of women in leadership roles. As a national hero who played a pivotal role in uniting France during a time of crisis, she became an enduring symbol of courage and patriotism. Her story challenges traditional gender norms by showcasing a woman who led troops into battle and claimed divine authority. This representation has inspired countless movements advocating for women's rights and leadership across various cultures, making Joan not just a figure of historical importance but also a catalyst for discussions about gender equality in leadership roles.

Related terms

Hundred Years' War:

A prolonged conflict between England and France from 1337 to 1453, primarily over territorial disputes and claims to the French throne.

Charles VII: The King of France whom Joan supported; his reign saw the consolidation of royal power and the end of English occupation in much of France.

Martyrdom: The suffering or death of a person for their beliefs; Joan was executed for her beliefs and later canonized as a saint, representing bravery and faith.