# The Maid's Sword and Banner explained — Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc

> Chapter companion for Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc by Mark Twain.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/personal_recollections_of_joan_of_arc_se/chapters/x-the-maid-s-sword-and-banner
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/personal_recollections_of_joan_of_arc_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/personal_recollections_of_joan_of_arc_se/chapters