Legacy Podcast: Joan of Arc | The Maid of Orleans | Episode 1 – Detailed Summary

Host: Afra Hersch
Co-host: Peter Frankopan
Episode Release Date: May 28, 2025

Introduction

In the inaugural episode of Legacy, Afra Hersch and Peter Frankopan delve into the life of Joan of Arc, a young woman whose unwavering courage and divine visions played a pivotal role in altering the course of French history. The episode, titled "The Maid of Orléans," explores whether Joan receives the recognition she truly deserves for her extraordinary contributions.

Early Life and Background

Joan of Arc was born in the village of Domrémy in the Vosges region of northeastern France in 1412. As the daughter of Jacques d'Arc, a literate peasant farmer and village tax collector, Joan's upbringing was rooted in rural life. She was deeply religious from a young age, frequently attending mass and participating earnestly in church rituals. This devoutness was partly shaped by the tumultuous times of the Hundred Years' War, which ravaged her homeland and instilled a profound sense of crisis and hope in its inhabitants.

Jeffrey Frankopan notes at [11:13] that Joan "has an uncle on her mother's side who was an official in the church," highlighting her family's respectable standing within village life. Contrary to popular depictions, Afra Hersch emphasizes that Joan was not merely a shepherdess but a central figure in her community, demonstrating her strong familial and social ties.

The Hundred Years' War: Context and Impact

The Hundred Years' War, lasting from 1337 to 1453, was a protracted conflict between England and France over territorial claims and the rightful succession to the French throne. By the early 15th century, the war had significantly destabilized France, leading to internal divisions and weakening the nation's ability to defend itself against external threats.

Peter Frankopan elaborates at [12:34], stating, "it's not just about right and wrong. It's about decision making, and it's about how do you learn from your mistakes." This intricate backdrop sets the stage for Joan's emergence as a unifying and galvanizing figure amidst chaos.

Joan's Divine Visions and Calling

At the tender age of thirteen, Joan began to experience divine visions, which she believed were messages from Saint Michael and other saints. These visions commanded her to support Charles, the Dauphin of France, and lead the country to victory against English forces. At [05:21], Peter Frankopan introduces this pivotal moment:

"Joan is about 13 years old when she starts to hear voices. And this first voice that Joan is supposed to hear is that of Saint Michael... tells her God has a great pity for the people of France and that she must go to the king."

Afra Hersch reflects on the broader phenomenon of voice-hearing, noting its prevalence and the diverse interpretations across cultures:

"Hearing voices or auditory hallucinations is actually much more common than I think people realize. There's research that shows up to 1 in 10 people hear them." ([05:50])

The Journey to the French King

Despite initial skepticism and rejection, Joan's unwavering belief in her mission eventually led her to seek an audience with Charles VII, the Dauphin. Her determination and the compelling nature of her claims garnered attention, especially after persistent efforts to secure an audience.

At [21:20], the narrative describes Joan's arrival at the fortress of Chinon, where she faces rigorous scrutiny to prove the authenticity of her visions. Afra Hersch marvels at Joan's resilience during an intense three-week interrogation:

"She has none of their background, none of their advantage. She's never been in a situation like that before." ([27:27])

Joan successfully passes these tests, convincing the clerics of her divine mission, which leads to her endorsement by King Charles:

"She comes out of that with her head held high, having convinced them that what she says is true." ([28:46])

The Siege and Liberation of Orléans

Empowered by divine approval, Joan is dispatched to lift the siege of Orléans, a strategic stronghold under English control. Her arrival reinvigorates the beleaguered French forces, who see her as both a spiritual and military leader.

On May 4, 1429, Joan and Jean the Bastard launch a successful assault on the Bastille of Saint Loup, marking the beginning of the liberation of Orléans. Afra Hersch narrates the intense battle scenes, highlighting Joan's inspirational presence on the battlefield:

"She's getting ready to fight. She's to lead an army up the Loire and end the siege of Orléans by the English to get France back on its feet." ([32:36])

Despite initial setbacks and injuries, Joan's unwavering determination culminates in the decisive victory at Orléans by May 8, 1429. This triumph not only lifts the siege but also solidifies Joan's status as a national heroine. Peter Frankopan emphasizes the psychological impact of Joan's faith and leadership:

"It's about Joan and her character. And a knight writes back to his mother after meeting her and says, it seemed to me a gift from heaven that she was there." ([47:15])

Joan’s Military Campaigns and Symbolism

Joan's role extended beyond mere participation; she became a symbol of divine intervention and French resilience. She orchestrated strategic attacks, such as the seizure of a hidden sword from the Church of Sainte Catherine de Fierbois, which further cemented her divine status.

Afra Hersch discusses the significance of Joan's banner, designed with powerful religious symbolism, and her insistence on non-lethal leadership:

"She never kills anyone in battle. She's about leading and she's not about killing." ([39:04])

Her ability to inspire and lead troops under dire circumstances showcased her exceptional leadership qualities, blending charisma with unwavering faith.

The Spread of Joan's Fame and Rising Challenges

Joan's victories quickly became legendary, spreading across Europe through letters and accounts from observers. This rapid dissemination of her deeds earned her both immense admiration and intense scrutiny.

Peter Frankopan points out the duality of Joan's fame:

"It's very unusual. There's a reason why Joan of Arc becomes so famous. There is a reason why people start flocking back to the dauphin and are being recruited." ([47:15])

However, as her influence grew, so did the political complexities surrounding her mission. The divided state of France, with factions like the Armagnacs and Burgundians vying for control, added layers of intrigue and opposition to Joan's endeavors.

Conclusion and Legacy

By the episode's end, Joan of Arc stands as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in a fractured France. Her ability to inspire troops, coupled with her divine visions, transformed her from a humble village girl into a national icon. Afra Hersch and Peter Frankopan conclude by hinting at the continuing saga of Joan's mission to march Charles to Reims for his coronation, promising further exploration in subsequent episodes.

"She's promised not just to take Orléans, but to march the king across, across 100 plus miles of Burgundian territory to Reims, the traditional place for crowning French kings." ([47:58])

Notable Quotes

• Peter Frankopan [05:21]:
  "Joan is about 13 years old when she starts to hear voices... tells her God has a great pity for the people of France and that she must go to the king."

• Afra Hersch [05:50]:
  "Hearing voices or auditory hallucinations is actually much more common than I think people realize. There's research that shows up to 1 in 10 people hear them."

• Afra Hersch [27:27]:
  "She has none of their background, none of their advantage. She's never been in a situation like that before."

• Afra Hersch [39:04]:
  "She never kills anyone in battle. She's about leading and she's not about killing."

• Peter Frankopan [47:15]:
  "It's about Joan and her character. And a knight writes back to his mother after meeting her and says, it seemed to me a gift from heaven that she was there."

Final Thoughts

This episode of Legacy masterfully intertwines historical facts with engaging storytelling to portray Joan of Arc's remarkable journey. By highlighting her personal bravery, strategic acumen, and the mystical elements surrounding her life, Afra Hersch and Peter Frankopan provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of why Joan of Arc remains a legendary figure in history.

For those eager to learn more about Joan's subsequent endeavors and ultimate legacy, stay tuned for the next episode of Legacy.