Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc · Chapter
The Jests of the Burgundians explained
The chapter describes the march to Rheims for the coronation of Charles VII, the swift surrender of Troyes after Joan's determined leadership, and a tense incident where Burgundian soldiers attempt to carry off French prisoners as 'goods' u
What happens
The chapter describes the march to Rheims for the coronation of Charles VII, the swift surrender of Troyes after Joan's determined leadership, and a tense incident where Burgundian soldiers attempt to carry off French prisoners as 'goods' under treaty terms. Joan intervenes to secure the prisoners' release, while the Dwarf kills a Burgundian who insults the Maid.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Divine Mission
Joan's unwavering belief that the coronation would complete her heavenly mission drives her impatience and leadership throughout the chapter.
Courage and Resilience
Joan's determination to assault Troyes despite lacking artillery and her hands-on labor preparing fascines exemplify her courage.
Injustice and Corruption of Power
The Burgundians' exploitation of treaty terms to carry off French prisoners highlights the cruelty and moral ambiguities of war.
Characters to notice
- Joan of Arc
Leads the march to Rheims, insists on assaulting Troyes, and later ransoms French prisoners from the Burgundians.
- Louis de Conte
Narrates the chapter, recalling the events at Troyes and the incident with the Burgundian soldiers.
- The Paladin
Bears Joan's banner during the entry into Troyes.
- La Hire
Supports Joan's judgment during the council, advocating for her leadership.
- Charles VII
Hesitates to march to Rheims but eventually follows Joan's advice and ransoms the prisoners at her request.
- Dunois
Mentions as part of the procession of knights and nobles.
- Pothon of Saintrailles
Listed among the knights accompanying the King.
- De la Tremouille
Present in the procession and mentioned as one of the King's advisers.
Key passages
“The campaign of the Loire had as good as opened the road to Rheims. There was no sufficient reason now why the Coronation should not take place.”
The Loire campaign had effectively cleared the path to Rheims, making the coronation possible.
Sets the stage for the march to Rheims.
“In three days' time the place is ours.”
We will capture the town within three days.
Joan's confident prediction about Troyes.
“The tongue that does that earns a long furlough.”
Insulting the Maid earns a long rest from speaking.
The Dwarf's grim jest before killing the Burgundian.