# The War March Is Begun explained — Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc

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

## What happens

Noël and Louis discuss Joan's appointment of the Paladin as Standard-Bearer, reflecting on her 'seeing eye' and her choice of La Hire to command the unruly recruits at Blois. The chapter concludes with the army's departure from Chinon, a grand procession marking the beginning of Joan's war march.

## Themes in this chapter

### Courage and Resilience

Joan's ability to inspire courage in others, as seen in the Paladin's transformation and France's renewed spirit.

### Truth Versus Propaganda

The 'seeing eye' theme contrasts superficial appearances with deeper truths, as Joan discerns hidden capacities in people.

### Faith and Divine Mission

Joan's leadership is portrayed as divinely inspired, with her 'creating mouth' and 'seeing eye' as gifts.

## Character check-ins

### Louis de Conte

Narrator; reflects on Joan's judgment and the Paladin's promotion.

### Noël Rainguesson

Converses with Louis about the Paladin's appointment and Joan's abilities.

### The Paladin

Appointed Standard-Bearer; described as a 'windmill' and 'majestic' figure.

### La Hire

Summoned by Joan to command the recruits at Blois; called 'Satan himself' and a 'military hurricane.'

### Joan of Arc

Leads the march; praised for her 'seeing eye' and ability to inspire courage.

### Dunois

Mentioned as the 'chief knight' who explained the concept of the 'seeing eye.'

## Key lines

> The first shall be last and the last first⁠—there's authority for this surprise.

Noël remarks on the unexpected promotion of the Paladin, referencing the biblical idea that the humble are exalted.

_Reflects the theme of reversal and Joan's unconventional choices._

> She's got the creating mouth as well as the seeing eye!

Noël declares that Joan not only perceives hidden qualities but also inspires them through her words.

_Highlights Joan's transformative influence on her followers._

> If God the Father were a soldier, He would rob.

La Hire's justification for pillaging, suggesting even God would do the same in his position.

_Illustrates La Hire's frankness and irreverent character._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/personal_recollections_of_joan_of_arc_se/chapters/xi-the-war-march-is-begun
- 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