Joan of Arc in Reference to M. Michelet's Histor

Name: Joan of Arc in Reference to M. Michelet's History of France
Author: Thomas de Quincey

The work explores the life and legacy of a young girl from Lorraine who rose to prominence as a military leader during a tumultuous period in French history. Drawing parallels between her and the biblical David, the narrative emphasizes her purity, self-sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to her country. Unlike other historical figures who achieved glory and recognition, she remained uncelebrated in life, ultimately sacrificing herself for the greater good of France. The author critiques the historical context surrounding her life, particularly the political and social upheaval of the time, including the madness of King Charles VI and the ongoing conflict with England. The girl, inspired by divine visions, felt compelled to take action to save her nation, leading to her pivotal role in the liberation of Orleans and the coronation of Charles VII. Her achievements are framed as miraculous, driven by a fervent belief in her mission. The narrative also delves into her trial and execution, highlighting the injustices she faced at the hands of her captors, particularly the Bishop of Beauvais, who sought to undermine her legacy. The author portrays her as a figure of immense moral strength, whose intellect and spirit shone even in the face of persecution. The trial is depicted as a farce, with her interrogators employing deceitful tactics to extract confessions, yet she consistently defied their attempts to tarnish her character. In her final moments, the girl is depicted as a martyr, embodying the virtues of courage and compassion. Her death is framed not as a defeat but as a testament to her unwavering faith and commitment to her cause. The author reflects on the broader implications of her story, suggesting that her legacy transcends national boundaries and resonates with themes of justice and sacrifice. Ultimately, the work serves as both a tribute to the girl from Domremy and a critique of the historical forces that sought to diminish her impact. It calls for a reevaluation of her place in history, recognizing her as a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. The narrative concludes with a powerful reflection on the enduring nature of her spirit, suggesting that her story will continue to inspire future generations.

By Thomas de Quincey · First published 1851 · Genre: Historical Analysis, Biography, Literary Criticism · 20,524 words

First lines

What is to be thought of _her_? What is to be thought of the poor shepherd girl from the hills and forests of Lorraine, that -- like the Hebrew shepherd boy from the hills and forests of Judaea -- rose suddenly out of the quiet, out of the safety, out of the religious inspiration, rooted in deep pastoral solitudes, to a station in the van of armies, and to the more perilous station at the right hand of kings? The Hebrew boy inaugurated his patriotic mission by an _act_, by a victorious _act_, such as no man could deny. But so did the girl of Lorraine, if we read her story as it was read by those who saw her nearest. Adverse armies bore witness to the boy as no pretender: but so they did to the gentle girl. Judged by the voices of all who saw them _from a station of good will_, both were found true and loyal to any promises involved in their first acts. Enemies it was that made the difference between their subsequent fortunes. The boy rose -- to a splendor and a noon-day prosperity, both personal and public, that rang through the records of his people, and became a byeword amongst his posterity for a thousand years, until the sceptre was departing from Judah. The poor, forsaken girl, on the contrary, drank not herself from that cup of rest which she had secured for France. She never sang together with the songs that rose in her native Domremy, as echoes to the departing steps of invaders.[1]

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Joan of Arc in Reference to M. Michelet's History of France is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas de Quincey, dated 1851 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Thomas de Quincey
Date: 1851 CE
Language: English
Genres: Historical Analysis, Biography, Literary Criticism, Philosophical Reflection, Political Commentary
Length: 20,524 words
Structure: 1 section, 77 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Historical Analysis — The book examines Joan of Arc within the context of French history, focusing on historical events and figures.
Biography — It provides a detailed exploration of Joan of Arc's life, character, and impact on history.
Literary Criticism — The work critiques M. Michelet's portrayal of Joan of Arc and offers an analysis of his historical narrative.
Philosophical Reflection — The text delves into themes of heroism, faith, and the nature of historical truth.