Henry VI, Part I · Chapter
Scene III explained
Joan of Arc rallies the French leaders after the loss of Rouen and devises a plan to persuade the Duke of Burgundy to abandon the English.
What happens
Joan of Arc rallies the French leaders after the loss of Rouen and devises a plan to persuade the Duke of Burgundy to abandon the English. Through eloquent and emotional appeals, she successfully convinces Burgundy to switch sides, strengthening the French cause.
Themes in this chapter
Supernatural and Religious Conflict
Joan is portrayed as having bewitching power over Burgundy, blending religious reverence with supernatural influence.
National Identity and Patriotism
Joan appeals to Burgundy's love for France, urging him to fight for his country rather than for foreign profit.
Honor and Chivalry
Burgundy's internal conflict and eventual surrender to Joan's words reflect the chivalric ideal of loyalty to one's nation and lord.
Characters to notice
- Joan of Arc
Devises a plan to win Burgundy over with persuasive words and successfully convinces him to defect.
- Charles the Dauphin
Expresses trust in Joan and welcomes Burgundy after his defection.
- Duke of Burgundy
Initially marching with the English, he is swayed by Joan's speech and switches allegiance to the French.
- Bastard of Orleans
Encourages Joan and celebrates Burgundy's change of heart.
- Duke of Alençon
Praises Joan's performance and suggests she deserves a crown of gold.
- Lord Talbot
Mentioned as leading English forces; his troops pass over the stage.
Key passages
“Dismay not, princes, at this accident, Nor grieve that Rouen is so recovered: Care is no cure, but rather corrosive, For things that are not to be remedied.”
Do not be discouraged, princes, by this setback or mourn the recapture of Rouen; worrying only makes things worse for what cannot be changed.
Joan urges the French leaders not to despair over the loss of Rouen.
“By fair persuasions mix'd with sugar'd words We will entice the Duke of Burgundy To leave the Talbot and to follow us.”
Through gentle and flattering speech, we will lure the Duke of Burgundy away from Talbot and bring him to our side.
Joan outlines her plan to win Burgundy over with sweet talk.
“I am vanquished; these haughty words of hers Have batter'd me like roaring cannon-shot, And made me almost yield upon my knees.”
I am defeated; her proud words have struck me like cannon fire and nearly brought me to my knees.
Burgundy admits he is overwhelmed by Joan's persuasive speech.