Joan of Arc (02:14)

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Joan of Arc was baptized at the Domremy parish and grew up in a small house nearby. Though writers during her time portrayed her as a shepherd, she most likely worked with her mother inside the house. Her family was devoutly Christian.

Saint Joan of Arc Basilica (02:59)

The basilica was built in 1881 in the countryside near Joan's birthplace. She was beatified in 1909 and made a saint in 1920. The walls are covered in paintings showing Joan's religious progression, including multiple scenes of her taking communion.

Joan's Voices (03:27)

In addition to the voice of God, Joan also received messages from Saints Catherine, Michele, and Marguerite. The saints helped guide Joan to follow the messages she received from God. It is believed God chose Joan because she was pure of heart, like many other young messengers.

Joan in Vaucouleurs (05:08)

Joan left her village at age 16 and traveled to Vaucouleurs, where she stayed with a family who believed her to be a prophet. She regularly assisted in services at the church, which now depicts her story in stained-glass windows. She frequently prayed to a statue of the Virgin Mary in a chapel overlooking the town.

Joan's Journey to Court (03:15)

In February 1429, Joan left Vaucouleurs for the court of Charles VII, the future king of France. The residents equipped her with armor, supplies, and a military escort. During the 11-day trip, Joan's voices led her to a church dedicated to St. Catherine, where she found a sword buried under the altar.

Joan and Charles (02:14)

Joan arrived at Charles' court in Chinon to convince him to liberate Reims, as the voices instructed. Charles did not believe her at first and had her examined by theologians, who determined she was trustworthy. Charles believed she was sent by God and introduced her to the public.

Joan and the Military (06:30)

Joan accompanied the military against English troops and was consulted by military leaders. She helped galvanize the troops as a flag bearer and was injured during the Siege of Orleans. She had soldiers confess their sins before battle in case they were killed and deeply mourned each soldier’s death.

Joan in Gien (05:02)

After the victory in Orleans, Joan arrived in Gien, where she raised an army of 12,000 men and defended the city against an English attack. She suffered a head injury but quickly returned to the battle, which led the soldiers to believe she had been resurrected by God.

Joan's Victories (04:49)

Joan went on to help liberate Beaugency and take part in the Battle of Patay. She stopped at numerous churches along the way to pray.

Charles' Coronation (04:40)

Joan was present for Charles VII's coronation at the cathedral in Reims on July 17, 1429. Charles reaching the throne fulfilled one of the missions Joan had been given by God.

Joan's Capture (02:12)

After a failed attempt to liberate Paris, Joan continued on to northern France, where she was captured by the English troops. She was imprisoned and kept under close guard.

Joan's Trial (03:16)

Joan was imprisoned and stood trial in Rouen, which was controlled by the English. She had numerous charges against her, from being a witch to dressing as a man to violating religious teachings. She was found guilty and burned in the town square at age 19.

Joan's Legacy (04:06)

Charles VII collected copies of Joan's story in order to maintain it. The first attempt to canonize her happened in 1640. She remains a symbol of national pride, courage, and religious devotion in France.

Credits: Joan of Arc (00:57)

Credits: Joan of Arc