Joan of Arc: The Patron Saint and Heroine of France

A short but extraordinary life. Her story is so unique that it sounds more like fiction than fact. Joan's story has such a universal reach that she became a multifaceted icon-a hero to monarchists, nationalists, liberals, traditionalists, and feminists. In a country caught in the grip of a long, grueling war, with its people demoralized, Joan appeared as an icon of hope. Dressed in male clothing, wearing armor, and with her hair cut short, she carried her standard and led armies on what most considered an impossible mission.