Fresh Verdicts on Joan of Arc

This insightful collection explores the life and legacy of Joan of Arc, revealing her enduring significance in history and culture, as discussed in Fresh Verdicts on Joan of Arc.

The book Fresh Verdicts on Joan of Arc presents a collection of original essays that delve into the complexities surrounding one of history's most enigmatic figures. Joan of Arc, a peasant girl who rose to lead the French army, crowned her king, and was ultimately executed as a heretic, only to be canonized later, continues to fascinate scholars and the general public alike. This volume aims to unravel the mysteries of her life and legacy, examining why she remains a powerful symbol even in contemporary times.

Contributors to Fresh Verdicts on Joan of Arc utilize modern tools of historical analysis, literary criticism, and feminist inquiry to explore various aspects of Joan's impact. The essays discuss her remarkable leadership qualities as seen by veterans of her military campaigns, the acceptance of her divine mission by contemporaries, and the ways in which modern politicians and artists have appropriated her image for their own narratives. Furthermore, the book sheds light on the Catholic Church's decision to canonize her in 1920, highlighting the enduring significance of her story.

The essays are meticulously cross-referenced and are complemented by a reflective epilogue from R. Gine Pernoud, a leading scholar on Joan of Arc and former director of the Centre Jeanne d'Arc in Orleans. The inclusion of maps enhances the reader's understanding of the historical context, making this volume not only a scholarly resource but also an engaging read for anyone interested in the life of Joan of Arc.