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54 pages 1 hour read

Saint Joan

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1923

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Book Brief

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George Bernard Shaw

Saint Joan

Fiction | Play | Adult | Published in 1923
Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

France • 1420s

Publication Year

1923

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

NP0L

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Super Short Summary

Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw follows the journey of Joan of Arc, a 15th-century French heroine who seeks to drive the English out of France, succeeds in leading the French army to victory, and crowns Charles VII as king. Despite her successes, Joan faces betrayal, a trial for heresy, and execution, ultimately questioning the societal and religious norms of her time. The play includes explicit content such as threats of torture, sexual assault, and suicide.

Inspirational

Contemplative

Emotional

Challenging

Mysterious

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw is lauded for its dynamic portrayal of Joan of Arc and its sharp, intelligent dialogue. The play's historical accuracy and exploration of complex themes earn praise, though some critics find its dense text and philosophical debates challenging. Overall, it is admired for its thought-provoking and nuanced character study.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Saint Joan?

A reader who appreciates historical drama with strong, complex characters would enjoy Saint Joan by George Bernard Shaw. This literary work appeals to fans of A Man for All Seasons by Robert Bolt and Antigone by Sophocles, as it combines rich historical context with powerful themes of individualism and defiance.

Character List

Joan of Arc

A young, confident peasant girl who dresses in male clothing and becomes a soldier, believing she is guided by divine voices. She challenges social hierarchies by asserting her visions and military prowess.

The initially apathetic and indebted Dauphin of France who evolves into a competent leader inspired by Joan. Known for his political vulnerability and playful humor, he learns to embrace his role as king.

The Bishop of Beauvais, who is a politically driven antagonist with deep convictions. He is committed to his perception of religious duty, often showing a complicated mix of compassion and strict adherence to authority.

A skilled and pragmatic military commander who becomes one of Joan’s key allies. Often called the "bastard" of Orléans, he balances a love for battle with a cautious approach to warfare.

Book Details
Pages

160

Format

Play • Fiction

Setting

France • 1420s

Publication Year

1923

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

16+ years

Lexile Level

NP0L

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