This edition of French heroine Joan of Arc's biography by Ronald Gower is complete with original illustrations depicting the places Joan visited and lived in. This book chronicles Joan's short life, and how she came to play a crucial role in the Hundred Years' War. Keenly recounting the history of 15th century France alongside the narrative of Joan's life, Gower offers the reader an informative and enlightening account of the conflicts and social turmoil present in the era. We witness Joan's rise to prominence from obscurity, and the ascription of divine inspiration to her decisions. Initially disguised as a male soldier during the conflict, her attraction as a symbolic savior to the French royal court of the era propelled Joan to rapid recognition. As a powerful figurehead inspiring to French soldiers, Joan enjoyed a uniquely influential position which was cut short by a sudden ambush and capture by English forces.