Joan of Arc

Definition

Joan of Arc was a peasant girl from France who became a national heroine and a key figure in the Hundred Years' War. Claimed to have received divine visions, she played a crucial role in lifting the siege of Orléans and paving the way for Charles VII's coronation, which helped shape national identity and unity during a tumultuous period in French history.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Joan of Arc claimed to have received visions from saints instructing her to support Charles VII and reclaim France from English occupation.
2. Her leadership during the Siege of Orléans in 1429 was pivotal, resulting in a French victory that boosted morale and shifted the war's momentum.
3. Joan was captured by Burgundian forces allied with England in 1430, leading to her trial for heresy and witchcraft.
4. Despite her execution, Joan's legacy grew, and she became a symbol of courage and resistance against oppression.
5. She was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church in 1920, solidifying her place as an enduring figure in French history.

Review Questions

• How did Joan of Arc's actions influence the course of the Hundred Years' War?
  • Joan of Arc significantly influenced the Hundred Years' War by leading French troops to victory at Orléans, which turned the tide in favor of France. Her presence inspired both soldiers and civilians, boosting morale at a time when the French were struggling against English forces. The successful lifting of the siege not only secured a critical military victory but also paved the way for Charles VII's coronation, reinforcing French unity in the face of conflict.
• In what ways did Joan of Arc contribute to the emergence of national identity in France during the 15th century?
  • Joan of Arc's contributions to France transcended her military achievements; she embodied a sense of national pride and unity during a period marked by division. Her role in securing Charles VII's coronation instilled a belief in divine favor for the French cause. As she became a symbol of resistance against English domination, her story helped foster a collective national identity among the French people that extended beyond regional loyalties, ultimately contributing to a stronger sense of nationhood.
• Evaluate how Joan of Arc’s legacy has shaped perceptions of nationalism and heroism in both historical and modern contexts.
  • Joan of Arc's legacy has profoundly shaped perceptions of nationalism and heroism by establishing her as an enduring symbol of bravery, sacrifice, and faith. Her martyrdom turned her into an icon for both historical narratives about France's struggle for independence and modern discussions on national identity. This duality reflects how she is viewed not only as a military leader but also as an emblematic figure representing the fight against oppression, influencing how nationalism is understood both historically and today.

Related terms

Hundred Years' War:

A series of conflicts fought between England and France from 1337 to 1453, primarily over territorial disputes and claims to the French throne.

Charles VII: The King of France who was crowned at Reims with Joan's support, marking a significant moment in the consolidation of French national identity.

Martyrdom: Joan of Arc was executed by burning at the stake in 1431, and her subsequent canonization reflected her status as a martyr and symbol of French nationalism.