"Saint Joan" is a play written by George Bernard Shaw, first staged in 1923. It chronicles the life of Joan of Arc, the French heroine who played a pivotal role in the Hundred Years' War and was eventually canonized as a saint by the Roman Catholic Church. The play begins with Joan as a simple peasant girl in Domrémy, France, who receives divine visions instructing her to drive the English out of France and crown the Dauphin, Charles VII, as king. Despite initial skepticism, Joan's fervor and conviction convince Charles's court to allow her to lead French troops. Joan's military successes, including the lifting of the siege of Orléans, quickly elevate her to hero status. However, her success breeds jealousy and suspicion among the political and ecclesiastical authorities, particularly after she is captured by the Burgundians and handed over to the English. The second half of the play deals with Joan's trial for heresy and her eventual martyrdom. Despite her valiant efforts to defend herself and her divine mission, Joan is ultimately condemned and burned at the stake. Shaw uses Joan's story to explore themes such as the nature of faith, the power dynamics between individuals and institutions, and the role of gender in society. "Saint Joan" is considered one of Shaw's masterpieces, praised for its insightful characterizations, sharp wit, and exploration of complex moral and political issues. It remains a popular and frequently performed work in the theatrical canon.
0