St Joan of Arc

This young girl was quite a heroine in the 15th century, especially in a world dominated by men. Born in southern Paris in 1412 from an educated couple, she had visions at the age of 12, which were later revealed to be from St. Michael, St. Catherine of Alexandria and St. Margaret of Antioch. They all told her to go to King Charles of France and pressure him to release France from the clutches of Great Britain. So the King, realising the pure intentions of Joan, sent her to take part in the war of Orleans. She arrived there in 1429 with her iconic banner to give a boost to the morale of the soldiers, who had just about given up a victory over the British. 9 days after her arrival, the British soldiers retreated. The French soldiers kept advancing, encouraged by Joan on their side until they arrived at Rheims. There the King was crowned with Joan of Arc next to him. The French victories raised their morale, which stayed with them during the One Hundred Years War. However Joan was arrested in Compiegne a year later and was accused of witchcraft and heresy. Her trial was the most cruel, and a classic 1928 black and white film called ‘The Passion of Joan of Arc’ shows with extreme close-ups the atrocity she suffered. It was a silent film but was set to music a few years ago, with a spectacular and haunting score. During her trial she was also condemned because she wore pants, trousers, something which every woman does today. Joan was burned at the stake in 1431 in Rouen, and her ashes were spread in the River Seine. The Catholic Church did another trial 25 years after her death, and her penalty was removed and was found innocent, but yet she lost her life. Her example was admired by the poor and wealthy alike, and her love of the sacraments as well as her contemplative life led her to be beatified in 1909 and canonized in 1920.