Joan of Arc, also known as Jeanne d'Arc, was a remarkable figure whose life continues to captivate people's imaginations centuries after her death. Born in Domrémy, a small village in northeastern France, in 1412, she would go on to play a pivotal role in the Hundred Years' War and become an enduring symbol of courage and devotion.

Narration & Art: Becca Segovia
Writing, Editing & Music Direction: Andre Segovia

Special thanks to Jeanne D’arc Info (https://www.jeannedarc.info/) where a wealth of amazing information lives, and a great source for our research.

Timestamps:
0:00 Early Life & Hundred Years' War
4:20 Joan's Mission Begins
10:12 Orleans & Victory after Victory
15:27 Downfall & Capture
17:12 Trial & Execution
20:17 What did Joan of Arc Look Like?
23:01 ReCreations Revealed

Joan's early life was marked by her deep religious faith and a sense of destiny. Growing up during a time of turmoil, with France divided by the war between the French and English, she experienced the hardships of war firsthand. From an early age, she claimed to have heard the voices of saints, including Saint Michael, Saint Catherine, and Saint Margaret, who instructed her to support the dauphin, Charles VII, in his bid to become the rightful king of France.

Inspired by her divine visions and motivated by her desire to see France liberated, Joan embarked on a journey that would make her a legend. At the age of 17, she sought an audience with Charles VII, who, impressed by her conviction, granted her an opportunity to lead the French army against the English. Joan donned men's clothing and, in a historic departure from societal norms, took up arms as a warrior.

In 1429, Joan led the French forces to a series of stunning victories. She played a crucial role in the lifting of the siege of Orléans, which had been under English control for months. Her military successes boosted French morale and paved the way for Charles VII's coronation as the rightful king of France. Joan's achievements earned her the nickname "The Maid of Orléans" and made her a national heroine.

However, Joan's fortunes took a turn for the worse. In 1430, she was captured by the Burgundians, who sold her to the English. She endured a lengthy and contentious trial, accused of heresy, witchcraft, and dressing inappropriately for a woman. Despite her unyielding faith and eloquent defense, Joan was found guilty and sentenced to death.

On May 30, 1431, at the age of 19, Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in Rouen, France. Her execution was a tragic end to a life marked by courage and conviction. Yet, Joan's story did not end with her death. Decades later, a retrial overturned her conviction, and she was declared innocent of all charges.

Joan of Arc's life and legacy continue to resonate across time. Her unwavering faith, her audacity to challenge societal norms, and her unwavering commitment to her cause make her a symbol of inspiration and resilience. Her story has been told and retold in countless books, plays, and films, further immortalizing her as one of history's most remarkable figures.

Joan of Arc's life represents more than just a tale of military triumphs and tragic martyrdom. It encapsulates the power of faith, the strength of individual conviction, and the impact that one person can have on the course of history. Her example serves as a reminder that ordinary individuals, driven by extraordinary beliefs, can change the world.

What did Joan of Arc look like?

In terms of Joan’s appearance, we have hardly anything to go on. The only image that remains from Joan’s lifetime is merely a doodle, made in the margins of French parliamentary notes by Clément de Fauquembergue, who had never seen her in real life.

There is also a statue head from a church in Orleans. The statue dates to the 15th century, and given Joan’s association with the city and the feminine appearance, for many years historians believed this might be a depiction of her. However, in more recent years, this has become less likely, and it’s now generally believed to belong to a statue of Saint George.

Luckily, we do have many descriptions of the ferocious warrior.

We know that she was short probably around 5’ 2”, and very muscular with a strong neck. She had dark hair, cropped short with bangs similar to the men’s hairstyles at the time. Artistic depictions of Joan actually popularized the bob hairstyle in the early 20th century. Her eyes were described as “large, dark, and grave”, and matched her skin tone, which was tan and sunburned from her time outdoors.

So, in terms of the recreation, this is mostly an artistic depiction. But I’ve used these contemporary descriptions of Joan, as well as some influence from the statue head (since there is nothing else solid to use as a jumpingoff point), to bring you what she might have looked like.

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