Overview:
Joan of Arc, also known as Jeanne d'Arc, was a young French peasant girl who became a national heroine and Roman Catholic saint. Born around 1412, she claimed to have received visions from God instructing her to support Charles VII and liberate France from English domination during the Hundred Years' War. Despite her lack of military training, Joan led French troops to several important victories, including the lifting of the siege of Orléans in 1429. Her unwavering faith and military successes helped to unite the French and turn the tide of the war.

However, Joan's remarkable journey was cut short when she was captured by the Burgundians, sold to the English, and put on trial for heresy. Despite her courageous defense, she was convicted and burned at the stake in 1431 at the age of 19. Twenty-five years later, her conviction was posthumously overturned, and in 1920, she was canonized as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church.

Patron Saint of:
France, soldiers, prisoners, people ridiculed for their piety, rape victims, and women in military service.

Feast Day:
‍May 30

Country of Origin:
France

Time Period:
15th century (1412-1431)

‍Interesting Facts:

1. Joan was illiterate and dictated her letters, though she may have later learned to sign her name.
2. She referred to herself as "Jeanne la Pucelle" ("Joan the Maiden"), emphasizing her virginity.
3. Joan cropped her hair short and wore men's clothing, including white armor, during her military campaigns.
4. She was only 17 years old when she led the French army to victory at Orléans.
5. Joan's trial lasted for over a year, during which she was interrogated nearly a dozen times but maintained her innocence and humility throughout.
6. Legend has it that her heart survived unaffected after she was burned at the stake.
7. Joan of Arc was officially cleared of all charges 20 years after her death and became a symbol of French national pride.

Crew

Director: Lee Parent

Writer: Kevin Wessa

Sound Engineer: Peter Atkinson

Cast

Joan of Arc: Joan of Arc

Saint Joan of Arc, the patron saint of France, is one of Christianity's most widely known figures. Teach your child all about Saint Joan of Arc through our educational guide.

Activities, discussion questions, coloring pages, and more! Look for a free downloadable education packet with every new series.

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