# The Epilogue explained — Saint Joan

> Chapter companion for Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw.

## What happens

Shaw defends the inclusion of the epilogue, arguing that Joan's true significance began with her execution and canonization, not ended with her death. He contrasts the triviality of accidental burning with the profound importance of sainthood, insisting that the epilogue is necessary to show both the incinerated Joan and the canonized Joan.

## Themes in this chapter

### Heresy and Sanctity

Shaw contrasts Joan's execution as a heretic with her later canonization as a saint, highlighting the transformation of her legacy.

### Historical Interpretation

Shaw insists that Joan's true historical significance begins with her death and canonization, challenging conventional narrative closure.

## Character check-ins

### Joan of Arc

Referenced as both the incinerated martyr and the canonized saint; her history is said to begin with her execution.

## Key lines

> I could hardly be expected to stultify myself by implying that Joan’s history in the world ended unhappily with her execution, instead of beginning there.

Shaw argues that Joan's story does not end tragically at her execution; rather, her true historical impact begins at that point.

_Shaw redefines the narrative arc of Joan's life, emphasizing her posthumous influence._

> for many a woman has got herself burnt by carelessly whisking a muslin skirt into the drawing room fireplace, but getting canonized is a different matter, and a more important one.

Accidental death by fire is common and trivial, but achieving sainthood is rare and profoundly significant.

_Shaw uses a domestic analogy to underscore the unique importance of Joan's canonization._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/saint_joan_se/chapters/the-epilogue
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/saint_joan_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/saint_joan_se/chapters