
The story revolves around a young woman who returns to France after being away for many years. She finds herself in the midst of World War I and becomes involved with a group of soldiers fighting on the front lines. As she witnesses the horrors of war, she begins to question her own identity and purpose. Through her experiences, the protagonist grapples with themes of patriotism, duty, and personal sacrifice. Her relationships with the soldiers around her are complex and multifaceted, reflecting the moral ambiguities of war. The narrative explores the psychological effects of combat on those who fight it, as well as the societal expectations placed upon women during this time period. The protagonist's journey is one of self-discovery and growth, as she navigates the challenges of war and her own sense of identity.
By Henry Van Dyke · First published 1920 · Genre: Poetry, Historical, Patriotic · 190 words
What hast thou done, O womanhood of France, Mother and daughter, sister, sweetheart, wife, What hast thou done, amid this fateful strife, To prove the pride of thine inheritance. In this fair land of freedom and romance? I hear thy voice with tears and courage rife, -- Smiling against the swords that seek thy life -- Make answer in a noble utterance: "I give France all I have, and all she asks. Would it were more! Ah, let her ask and take; My hands to nurse her wounded, do her tasks, -- My feet to run her errands through the dark, -- My heart to bleed in triumph for her sake, -- And all my soul to follow thee, Jeanne d'Arc!"
April 16, 1916.
Jeanne D'Arc Returns. 1914-1916 (France and Belgium) is listed on Textopian as a poem by Henry Van Dyke, dated 1920 CE.
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Historical Fiction · War Literature · French History · Belgian History · World War I · Fictionalized Biography · Young Adult · Coming of Age · Spiritual Themes · Moral Ambiguity · Nationalism · Patriotism