Saint Joan: A Comprehensive Study Guide
Historical Context and Background
George Bernard Shaw's "Saint Joan" is a powerful historical drama that brings to life the story of Joan of Arc, the French peasant girl who led armies, inspired a nation, and was ultimately burned at the stake as a heretic. To fully appreciate this play, it's crucial to understand its historical backdrop.
The play is set in the 15th century during the Hundred Years' War between England and France. Joan of Arc, also known as the Maid of Orleans, played a pivotal role in turning the tide of this conflict in favor of France.
Shaw's portrayal of Joan is not just a historical retelling but a commentary on themes that resonate even in modern times:
- The conflict between individual conscience and institutional authority
- The struggle for national identity and independence
- The role of faith and reason in society
- Gender roles and expectations
Character Analysis
Joan of Arc
Joan is the heart and soul of the play. Shaw presents her as:
- Charismatic and confident, yet naive
- Deeply religious, guided by "voices" she believes are divine
- Intelligent and articulate, despite her lack of formal education
- A symbol of proto-feminism and nationalism
"I hear voices telling me what to do. They come from God."
This line encapsulates Joan's unwavering faith and the source of her strength.
Other Key Characters
- Robert de Baudricourt: The first authority figure Joan encounters, initially skeptical but later convinced of her mission.
- The Dauphin (later Charles VII): Weak and indecisive, yet transformed by Joan's influence.
- Dunois: The military commander who recognizes Joan's tactical genius.
- Cauchon: The Bishop of Beauvais, who leads Joan's trial, torn between political pressure and his own conscience.
Pay attention to how each character's interaction with Joan reveals different aspects of her personality and the societal structures she challenges.
Themes and Symbolism
Faith vs. Reason
Shaw explores the tension between Joan's mystical experiences and the rationality of the Church and state.
"How can the Church be against me when I am acting under the orders of its Founder?"
This quote highlights the central conflict between Joan's direct connection to God and the Church's established hierarchy.
Nationalism and Identity
Joan becomes a symbol of French nationalism, challenging both English rule and the universal authority of the Catholic Church.
Gender and Power
Joan's adoption of male clothing and her role as a military leader challenge 15th-century gender norms, a theme Shaw uses to comment on contemporary issues.
Don't mistake Shaw's Joan for a simple feminist icon. Her character is complex, and her gender-defying actions are more about practicality and divine calling than a conscious challenge to patriarchy.
Structure and Style
Shaw's play is notable for its:
- Episodic structure, presenting key moments in Joan's life
- Use of anachronisms to connect historical events with modern ideas
- Long preface and epilogue that frame the historical narrative within Shaw's own commentary
In the epilogue, characters from the play appear to Joan in a dream, discussing her posthumous rehabilitation. This allows Shaw to comment on how history views Joan and to critique the notion of sainthood.
Language and Rhetoric
Shaw's dialogue is rich with:
- Wit and irony
- Philosophical debates
- Colloquial language that makes historical figures more relatable
Pay close attention to how characters use language to assert power, persuade others, or defend their beliefs.
Critical Reception and Interpretation
"Saint Joan" is often considered one of Shaw's masterpieces. Critics have praised it for its:
- Complex portrayal of historical events
- Nuanced character development
- Exploration of timeless themes
However, some have criticized Shaw's interpretation of Joan as too modern or his treatment of historical facts as too loose.
Consider how Shaw's own beliefs and the context of the 1920s, when the play was written, might have influenced his portrayal of Joan and the themes he chose to emphasize.
Conclusion
"Saint Joan" is more than a historical drama; it's a profound exploration of faith, power, and the individual's role in society. As you study this play, consider how Shaw uses Joan's story to comment on his own time and ours. Look for parallels between the conflicts Joan faces and contemporary issues of faith, gender, and national identity.
Remember, Shaw's Joan is both a historical figure and a modern heroine, challenging us to think about our own beliefs and the institutions that shape our world.
