February 21st, 2023

Greetings,

Today marks the anniversary of an important event in history - the first day of Joan of Arc's interrogation during her trial for heresy in 1431. Joan of Arc, also known as the Maid of Orléans, was a young French peasant girl who played a crucial role in the Hundred Years' War between England and France. She claimed to have been guided by divine voices, which instructed her to lead the French army to victory over the English.

However, after being captured by the English and their allies, she was handed over to the ecclesiastical authorities, who put her on trial for heresy. The trial was conducted by a panel of judges, which included both French and English church officials.

Joan's interrogation began on February 21, 1431, in the city of Rouen, where she was being held captive. She was questioned about her visions, her relationship with God, and her claims of being a messenger of God. Her responses were recorded and transcribed, and they provide us with a glimpse into her character and beliefs.

Joan was a young woman of great conviction, who held firm to her beliefs even in the face of great adversity. She answered her interrogators with confidence and clarity, despite the fact that many of them were hostile towards her. She refused to retract her claims of divine guidance, even when threatened with torture.

The trial lasted for several months, during which Joan was subjected to various forms of psychological and physical abuse. She was eventually found guilty of heresy and was burned at the stake on May 30, 1431.

Joan of Arc's trial and execution are seen by many as a great injustice. In 1920, she was canonized as a saint by the Catholic Church, and her bravery and conviction continue to inspire people around the world.

As we remember this important anniversary, let us take a moment to reflect on the courage of this young woman, who stood up for her beliefs in the face of great persecution. Her story is a reminder of the power of faith, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Thank you for reading.

Best regards,

History Nerds