Uncovering 6 Fascinating Facts About Joan of Arc

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Jeanne d’Arc, commonly called Joan of Arc, was a young woman from medieval France who left a lasting legacy. Despite passing away at only 19, she led armies and inspired her nation during a time when women had limited rights. Believing she was chosen by divine forces, Joan persuaded King Charles VII to let her command troops, leading to a pivotal victory at Orléans in the Hundred Years’ War. Her courage made her a national hero and a symbol of French resilience and unity.

After her capture by English-allied forces, Joan faced a church trial accused of heresy and witchcraft. She was ultimately sentenced to death by burning at the stake at age 19. Decades later, her story transformed into legend, and she was canonized as a saint in 1920. Today, Joan remains a powerful icon of French nationalism and faith, celebrated worldwide. While widely known, many are unaware of the deeper aspects of her life and legacy.

Here are five intriguing facts about Joan of Arc you might not know:

1. Her real name was Jehanne, not Joan

Born Jehanne d’Arc in Domrémy, France, she was called “Jehanne la Pucelle” or “Joan the Maid” during her trial. The name “Joan of Arc” emerged from misunderstandings surrounding her father’s surname and her birthplace.

2. She did not fight in battle personally

Although remembered as a fierce warrior, Joan never fought on the front lines. Her role was to strategize, inspire troops, and lead through her presence and banners, not through combat.

3. She may have suffered from mental health issues

Her visions and voices, which she believed were divine messages, occurred when she was just 12-13. Some modern doctors suggest she might have experienced conditions like epilepsy or schizophrenia, given her symptoms of seeing lights and hearing voices.

4. Her execution was not solely for witchcraft

While often believed to be burned for witchcraft, she was tried for heresy and wearing men’s clothing. She was illiterate and coerced into signing a confession; her enemies then labeled her a relapsed heretic and sentenced her to death.

5. She was known for a fiery temper

Joan was outspoken and quick-tempered, often reprimanding soldiers and even intimidating those around her with her behavior, including threats of violence.

6. Her haircut inspired the iconic bob style of 1909

Joan’s decision to cut her hair short, as commanded during her visions, inspired a French hairstylist in 1909 to create the bob haircut. The style gained worldwide popularity in the 1920s thanks to silent film stars, symbolizing modernity and independence.