Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc · Chapter
Joan Tames the Mad Man explained
The children of Domremy learn of the Treaty of Troyes, which betrays France to the English.
What happens
The children of Domremy learn of the Treaty of Troyes, which betrays France to the English. Joan's bravery is demonstrated when she calmly subdues a madman wielding an axe, earning her the nickname 'the Brave.' The chapter contrasts the children's patriotic outrage with Joan's quiet, selfless courage.
Themes in this chapter
Patriotism and National Identity
The children's outrage at the Treaty of Troyes reflects deep national pride and resistance to English rule.
Courage and Resilience
Joan's fearless confrontation of the madman exemplifies true courage, contrasting with the others' flight.
Innocence and Purity
Joan's modesty and selfless concern for others highlight her pure character.
Characters to notice
- Joan of Arc
Shows extraordinary bravery by taming a madman with an axe; known for her modesty and selflessness.
- Louis de Conte
Narrator; feels ashamed for running away during the madman incident.
- The Paladin
Boastful boy who claims he would lead charges but is exposed as a coward.
- Noël Rainguesson
Attempts to justify his flight from the madman; also called Étienne Roze (the Sunflower).
- Pierre d'Arc
Joan's brother; comforts her after the news of the treaty.
- Mengette
Little Mengette; first to spot the black flag and later questions Joan about her bravery.
- Haumette
Calms the group to hear the full news of the treaty.
- Edmond Aubrey
Called the Paladin; argues against the treaty's legality and boasts of future military exploits.
Key passages
“We were all patriots, but she was called the Patriot, because our warmest feeling for our country was cold beside hers.”
Everyone in the group loved France, but Joan's devotion was so intense that it made theirs seem weak in comparison.
Highlights Joan's exceptional patriotism.
“It was not a great matter. It was not as if I had been a stranger to the man. I know him, and have known him long; and he knows me, and likes me.”
Joan downplays her bravery, explaining that her familiarity with the madman made the encounter less dangerous.
Shows Joan's humility and practical reasoning.
“The fact is, I was taken by surprise. That is the reason. If I had had a moment to think, I would no more have thought of running that I would think of running from a baby.”
Noël claims he only fled because he was caught off guard, insisting he would not be afraid under normal circumstances.
Illustrates the boys' attempts to rationalize their cowardice.