Notes Chapter 4.5 “Joan of Arc” Class 10 English Maharashtra Board

Notes For All Chapters – English Class 10

Joan of Arc

Author: George Bernard Shaw
Setting: The story is set in France during the Hundred Years War (1337–1453). The year is 1429. Northern France and parts of the southwest were under English and Burgundian control.

Main Characters

1. Joan of Arc: A confident, courageous, and determined peasant girl who believed she was chosen by God to save France.
2. Captain Robert de Baudricourt: A military officer initially skeptical of Joan’s ideas.
3. Steward: Captain Robert’s assistant, who recognizes Joan’s bravery.
4. Bertrand de Poulengey: A French guard who supports Joan’s mission.
5. Dauphin: The future King of France, hesitant and lacking confidence.

Plot Summary

Joan of Arc, a young peasant girl, approaches Captain Robert de Baudricourt with a bold request for a horse, armor, and soldiers to support her in her mission to meet the Dauphin and free Orleans from English control. Initially, Robert dismisses her as mad but is gradually persuaded by her unshakable confidence and the support she receives from Poulengey and other soldiers. Despite doubts about the success of her mission, Robert ultimately grants her the resources she needs, believing she might inspire the French troops.

Themes

1. Faith and Determination: Joan’s unwavering belief in her divine mission demonstrates the power of faith.
2. Courage in Adversity: Joan’s bravery and confidence inspire those around her, even in the face of skepticism.
3. Role of Women in History: Joan challenges societal norms by taking on a leadership role in a male-dominated war.

Important Incidents

1. Joan’s Request: Joan confidently requests resources from Captain Robert to carry out her mission.
2. Skepticism of Robert: Robert is doubtful of Joan’s abilities and intentions but is impressed by her determination.
3. Support from Poulengey: Bertrand de Poulengey sees potential in Joan and advocates for her plan.
4. Robert’s Agreement: Eventually, Robert agrees to support Joan, realizing her determination might ignite hope among the French troops.

Notable Lines

Confidence:

• Joan: “You think you will, squire, but it won’t happen that way.”
• Joan: “I don’t think it can be very difficult if God is on your side.”

Courage:

• Joan: “Our soldiers are always beaten because they are fighting only to save their skins.”
• Joan: “I will teach them all to fight for France.”

Determination:

• Joan: “I shall not want many soldiers. The Dauphin will give me all I need.”
• Poulengey: “Her words have put fire into me.”

Key Vocabulary

• Squire: A person of high rank.
• Armour: Protective clothing worn by soldiers.
• Plundering: Looting or stealing.
• Raising a siege: Breaking the enemy’s encirclement.
• Wavering: Hesitating.

Indian Women Warriors (Comparison)

Similarities between Rani Lakshmibai and Joan of Arc:

• Both displayed immense courage in battle.
• Both inspired their troops despite challenges.
• Both fought for the freedom of their nations.

Differences:

• Rani Lakshmibai was a queen, while Joan was a peasant girl.
• Joan claimed divine guidance, while Rani relied on her leadership skills.
• Rani fought against British colonialism; Joan fought during the Hundred Years War.