Let’s talk about France National Hero. When it comes to the history of France, one cannot forget the name of Joan of Arc. She was a national heroine who played a crucial role in the Hundred Years’ War between France and England during the 15th century. Joan of Arc, also known as Jeanne d’Arc, was a remarkable figure who led the French army to several victories, inspired her compatriots, and changed the course of the war. In this article, we will dive deep into the life and achievements of Joan of Arc, and why she is considered a France National Hero.
Early Life of France National Hero
Joan of Arc was born in 1412 in Domrémy, a small village in northeastern France. She was the youngest of five children in her family. Her father was a farmer and a minor official, and her mother was a devout Catholic. Joan grew up in a religious and patriotic environment, and she was deeply influenced by the ongoing conflict between France and England.
The Vision
At the age of 13, Joan had a vision of Saint Michael, Saint Catherine, and Saint Margaret, who told her that she had been chosen by God to drive the English out of France and help the dauphin (heir to the French throne) become king. This vision was followed by several others, and Joan believed that she had been given a divine mission.
The Siege of Orléans
In 1429, at the age of 17, Joan of Arc went to see the dauphin, Charles VII, at Chinon. Despite initial skepticism, Charles was convinced of her sincerity and granted her the command of a small army to relieve the besieged city of Orléans. Joan of Arc’s arrival at Orléans boosted the morale of the French troops, and she led several successful military campaigns against the English.
The Coronation of Charles VII
After the siege of Orléans, Joan of Arc urged Charles VII to go to Reims, where he could be crowned king of France. Reims was held by the English, and the coronation of Charles VII was a significant political and religious event. Joan of Arc accompanied Charles VII to Reims and played a crucial role in the coronation ceremony.
The Trial and Execution
In 1430, Joan of Arc was captured by the Burgundians, who sold her to the English. She was put on trial by the English and the pro-English French authorities, who accused her of heresy and witchcraft. Joan of Arc was found guilty and burned at the stake in Rouen in 1431, at the age of 19.
Joan of Arc’s Legacy as France National Hero
Joan of Arc’s life and achievements have had a profound impact on French history and culture. Her leadership and military prowess during the Hundred Years’ War inspired her compatriots and gave them hope in the face of adversity. Her unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution and death made her a symbol of martyrdom and devotion.
The Importance of France National Hero
Joan of Arc is a significant figure in French culture, and her legacy is still celebrated today. French national pride and identity are often associated with her, and she is considered a symbol of French resistance and independence. Her image and likeness have appeared in French literature, art, music, and film.
The Influence of France National Hero
Joan of Arc’s role as a female military leader has been an inspiration to women throughout history. Her courage and leadership have challenged gender stereotypes and paved the way for women’s rights and equality. She has been a source of inspiration for feminists and women’s rights activists.
The Significance of France National Hero
Joan of Arc’s armor and weaponry have become significant historical artifacts, representing the bravery and courage of the French army during the Hundred Years’ War. Her armor is on display at the Musée de l’Armée in Paris, and her sword is preserved at the Basilique du Sacré-Cœur in Paris.
Joan of Arc’s Role in Literature and Art
Joan of Arc has been a popular subject of literature and art, both in France and abroad. Her story has been depicted in numerous novels, plays, poems, and paintings. Some of the most famous works include George Bernard Shaw’s play Saint Joan, Mark Twain’s novel Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc, and the painting Joan of Arc by Jules Bastien-Lepage.
The Historical Controversies Surrounding the France National Hero
There have been several controversies surrounding Joan of Arc’s life and death. Some historians have questioned the authenticity of her visions and doubted her military achievements. Others have accused her trial and execution of being politically motivated and unjust. The debates continue to this day, and Joan of Arc’s legacy remains a subject of scholarly and public interest.
FAQs
- Why is Joan of Arc considered a national hero in France?
Joan of Arc’s leadership and military prowess during the Hundred Years’ War inspired her compatriots and gave them hope in the face of adversity. Her unwavering faith and courage in the face of persecution and death made her a symbol of martyrdom and devotion.
- What was Joan of Arc’s mission?
Joan of Arc believed that she had been chosen by God to drive the English out of France and help the dauphin become king.
- What happened to Joan of Arc after the siege of Orléans?
Joan of Arc was captured by the Burgundians, who sold her to the English. She was put on trial by the English and the pro-English French authorities, who accused her of heresy and witchcraft. Joan of Arc was found guilty and burned at the stake in Rouen in 1431.
- What is the significance of Joan of Arc’s armor and weaponry?
Joan of Arc’s armor and weaponry have become significant historical artifacts, representing the bravery and courage of the French army during the Hundred Years’ War.
- What is the controversy surrounding Joan of Arc’s life and death?
Some historians have questioned the authenticity of her visions and doubted her military achievements. Others have accused her trial and execution of being politically motivated and unjust.
Conclusion
Joan of Arc’s life and achievements have had a profound impact on French history and culture. She is a national heroine who represents French resistance, independence, and religious devotion. Her legacy has inspired countless works of literature and art, and she continues to be a symbol of courage and strength for women around the world. Despite the controversies surrounding her life and death, Joan of Arc’s story remains a testament to the enduring power of faith, courage, and determination.
References
- Pernoud, R. (1998). Joan of Arc: By Herself and Her Witnesses. Scarborough House.
- DeVries, K. (1999). Joan of Arc: A Military Leader. Sutton Publishing Limited.
- Castor, H. (2014). Joan of Arc: A History. HarperCollins.
- Doyle, W. (1989). The Oxford History of the French Revolution. Oxford University Press.