Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc · Chapter
The Maid's Sword and Banner explained
Joan dictates a letter to the English commanders at Orleans, appoints La Hire to manage recruiting at Blois, and receives d'Aulon as chief of her household.
What happens
Joan dictates a letter to the English commanders at Orleans, appoints La Hire to manage recruiting at Blois, and receives d'Aulon as chief of her household. She obtains a legendary sword from Fierbois and designs her standard and pennon. Amidst the bustle of preparation at Tours, Joan appoints her old friends—including Louis, Noël, and the Paladin—to positions in her household, transforming the Paladin from a braggart into a devoted banner-bearer.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Divine Mission
Joan's actions are guided by her Voices, as seen in the discovery of the hidden sword and her design of the standard with religious imagery.
Courage and Resilience
The Paladin transforms from a fearful braggart into a courageous banner-bearer, vowing to follow Joan into the fire.
Patriotism and National Identity
Joan's standard bears the crown of France, and her mission is to drive the English out and restore French sovereignty.
Characters to notice
- Joan of Arc
Dictates a letter to the English, obtains the sword of Fierbois, designs her standard, and appoints her household, including the Paladin as her banner-bearer.
- Louis de Conte
Narrates the chapter; appointed first page and secretary in Joan's household.
- The Paladin
Initially anxious about his chances, he is appointed Joan's banner-bearer and vows to follow her into the fire.
- Noël Rainguesson
Appointed as Joan's messenger; teases the Paladin with a dream about his appointment.
- La Hire
Ordered by Joan to take charge of the recruiting station and depot of supplies at Blois.
- Dunois
The Great Bastard, governor of Orleans, who had been clamoring for Joan to be sent to him.
- Jean de Metz
Sent by Joan to Fierbois to retrieve the ancient sword hidden behind the altar of St. Catherine's.
- Jean Pasquerel
Appointed as Joan's chaplain and almoner.
Key passages
“She must have been thinking it all out before and arranging it in her mind, it flowed from her lips so smoothly, and framed itself into such vivacious and forcible language.”
Joan had clearly prepared the letter in advance, as she dictated it with ease and powerful expression.
Highlights Joan's quick mind and capable tongue.
“I wanted to sharpen that old blade, but she said it was not necessary, as she should never kill anybody, and should carry it only as a symbol of authority.”
Joan refused to sharpen the sword, intending it as a symbol rather than a weapon, as she did not plan to kill anyone.
Reflects Joan's non-violent intent despite her military role.
“It was fine to see the Paladin’s face light up when she said that. 'Will you follow where I lead?' 'Into the fire!' he said; and I said to myself, 'By the ring of that, I think she has turned this braggart into a hero.'”
The Paladin's face brightened at Joan's words, and his vow to follow her into the fire convinced Louis that Joan had transformed him from a braggart into a true hero.
Illustrates Joan's ability to inspire courage in others.
