Jeanne d’Arc
Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc)
History / Mysticism / Martyr / Saint / National Icon
Born: c. 1412 — Died: 1431
Origin: Domrémy, Lorraine (France)
Definition:
Jeanne d’Arc, known in English as Joan of Arc, was a peasant girl and mystic who claimed to receive divine visions and voices urging her to lead France to victory in the Hundred Years’ War. She became a military leader at age 17, helped crown King Charles VII, but was captured, tried for heresy and witchcraft, and burned at the stake at age 19. She was later canonized as a saint and is a national heroine of France.
Mystical Aspects:
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Claimed to hear voices of saints: Michael the Archangel, St. Catherine, and St. Margaret
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Described her visions as divine guidance, not political ambition
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Often entered spiritual trances or ecstatic states
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Seen as a prophet, divine messenger, or even holy warrior
Historical Significance:
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Became a symbol of French unity and divine legitimacy
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Led key victories, most famously lifting the siege of Orléans (1429)
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Enabled the coronation of Charles VII at Reims
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Tried and executed by an English-backed church court
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Exonerated in 1456 and canonized in 1920
Legacy:
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Represents faith, courage, national pride, and female strength
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Celebrated in literature, opera, cinema, and theology
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In esoteric circles, sometimes viewed as a mystic archetype, a channel for divine feminine energy, or a spiritual warrior
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