Primary Characters in Saint Joan
Joan of Arc (The Maid)
Joan is the central character and driving force of the play, a young peasant girl who becomes a military leader through her divine visions and unwavering faith.
NoteJoan's character represents the conflict between individual conscience and institutional authority, a theme that runs throughout the play.
Key characteristics:
- Unwavering faith in her divine mission
- Direct and honest communication style
- Remarkable military intuition
- Stubborn determination
- Combination of innocence and wisdom
"I hear voices telling me what to do. They come from God."
Her transformation throughout the play:
- From simple farm girl to military commander
- From celebrated hero to condemned heretic
- From martyr to canonized saint
Robert de Baudricourt
The first authority figure Joan encounters, initially skeptical but eventually convinced by her determination.
Key traits:
- Pragmatic and worldly
- Initially dismissive of Joan
- Represents conventional medieval authority
"Do you know what you are talking about, girl? Warriors and soldiers and knights and squires and nobles and princes!"
The Dauphin (Charles VII)
A weak-willed but complex character who becomes King of France through Joan's efforts.
TipPay attention to the contrast between Charles's physical position as future king and his psychological weakness - it's a key element of Shaw's characterization.
Defining features:
- Insecure and indecisive
