The Trial of Joan of Arc

The record of Joan of Arc's 1431 heresy trial is one of the most significant primary sources historians have for understanding this young woman's life and beliefs. Now Hobbins, who teaches history at the University of Texas, has produced what is sure to be the definitive edition of the trial documents. Here we see Joan being questioned about her claim that she heard divine voices, and her choice to wear men's clothes. We also hear her firm insistence that all of her exploits were undertaken as acts of obedience to God's command. Especially valuable is Hobbins's 32-page introduction, which assesses the reliability of the text, explains medieval court procedure, and offers a description and evaluation of Joan herself. Hobbins sets Joan in the context of a centuries-long tradition of women mystics and saints who received special revelations. Joan participated in this tradition, but, in merging visionary mysticism with militarism, she was also unique. Useful appendices lay out the chronology of Joan's life and list the central characters in her trial. Sure to find wide use in classrooms, this text promises to transport any reader who wishes to go back in time with Joan of Arc.