Joan of Arc: The Early Debate [Hardcover]

Deborah A. Fraioli (Author)

Book Description

ISBN-10: 0851155723 | ISBN-13: 978-0851155722 | Publication Date: February 2000

Joan of Arc arrived at the French court claiming to be sent by God to come to the aid of the dauphin Charles. Most studies of Joan focus on her political expediency, but the starting point of this book is her assertion that she was sent by God. It presents an exploration of the application of the Catholic doctrine of "discetio spirituum" (the discernment of spirits) to her case, and of her reception as a visionary woman. The author examines contemporary theological documents which show genuine debate about Joan's mission and whether she was diabolically or divinely inspired, also taking into account the two major literary works dealing with her, Christine de Pizan's "Ditie de Jehanne d'Arc" and Martin Le Franc's "Le Champion de dames" as well as Joan's own letter to the English. Appendices supply translations of pertinent Latin and French texts.

Editorial Reviews

Review

With this dense and intricate book Fraioli has done an immense service to anyone interested in Joan of Arc. She skillfully disentangles countless textual threads, all centered around one problem: the nature of Joan's mission as it was examined in the early theological debates... A thorough and timely book. MYSTICS QUARTERLY For readers pondering how it was possible for a 17-year-old girl to persuade her king and his entourage that she was sent by God to lead their party into battle...(this) will be a welcome resourse. SPECULUM --This text refers to the Paperback edition.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: Boydell Press (February 2000)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0851155723
• ISBN-13: 978-0851155722
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.4 x 1 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.4 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #10,085,191 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A great source for Joan enthusiasts, April 11, 2000

By 

Crystal - See all my reviews

This review is from: Joan of Arc: The Early Debate (Hardcover)

Dr. Fraioli presents an in depth analysis of the early debate surrounding Joan. Drawing on many contemporary sources, such as the writings of Christine De Pizan and those letters atributed to Joan, the author backs up her arguments. There are also appendices which include sources in French for those scholars who prefer to check their own translations against the authors. It's a great book for historians, theologians, and others. It is slightly advanced, but should not pose a problem for college students and above. Overall, a great read and a great aid for Joan-related research.