Joan of Arc

This edition of French heroine Joan of Arc's biography by Ronald Gower is complete with original illustrations depicting the places Joan visited and lived in.

This book chronicles Joan's short life, and how she came to play a crucial role in the Hundred Years' War. Keenly recounting the history of 15th century France alongside the narrative of Joan's life, Gower offers the reader an informative and enlightening account of the conflicts and social turmoil present in the era. 

We witness Joan's rise to prominence from obscurity, and the ascription of divine inspiration to her decisions. Initially disguised as a male soldier during the conflict, her attraction as a symbolic savior to the French royal court of the era propelled Joan to rapid recognition. As a powerful figurehead inspiring to French soldiers, Joan enjoyed a uniquely influential position which was cut short by a sudden ambush and capture by English forces. 

All of these events are told and detailed in this book, with the infamous trial of Joan of Arc receiving particular attention. Gower is particularly focused upon the biased nature of the tribunal which convicted and sentenced Joan to a horrific death by burning at the stake. 

Ronald Sutherland Gower first published this account of Joan of Arc in the 1890s, at a time when interest in the Medieval heroine was ascending. The tale of a young woman succeeding to capture the national heart and spirit against all odds was inspiring, both to religious adherents and to early feminist groups such as the suffragettes.