Symbols in Saint Joan
In George Bernard Shaw's play "Saint Joan," symbols play a crucial role in conveying deeper meanings and themes. Let's explore some of the key symbols and their significance in the work.
The Voices
One of the most prominent symbols in the play is Joan's "voices." These are the divine messages she claims to hear from God, St. Michael, St. Catherine, and St. Margaret.
NoteThe voices symbolize Joan's divine inspiration and her connection to a higher power. They represent her unwavering faith and the source of her strength and conviction.
JOAN: I hear voices telling me what to do. They come from God.
The voices serve multiple symbolic purposes:
- Divine guidance: They represent Joan's direct connection to God, symbolizing her role as a messenger and chosen one.
- Inner strength: The voices can be seen as a manifestation of Joan's inner strength and conviction.
- Controversy: They symbolize the conflict between faith and reason, as others struggle to understand or accept Joan's claims.
The Sword and Armor
Joan's sword and armor are powerful symbols throughout the play.
TipPay attention to how Joan's relationship with her sword and armor changes throughout the play, as it reflects her journey and transformation.
The sword and armor symbolize:
- Masculine power: In a male-dominated society, these items represent Joan's adoption of traditionally male roles and her challenge to gender norms.
- Divine authority: Joan claims her sword was divinely revealed to her, symbolizing her God-given mission.
- Transformation: The armor represents Joan's transformation from a simple peasant girl to a military leader.
JOAN: My sword was found behind the altar in the church of Saint Catherine of Fierbois. I had never been there; but my voices told me it was there.
The Crown
The crown is a potent symbol in "Saint Joan," representing both earthly and divine authority.
Common MistakeDon't confuse the literal crown with its symbolic meaning. While it's a physical object, its importance lies in what it represents.
