Introduction

Joan of Arc, the French heroine and martyr, is remembered for her bravery and conviction in serving her country during the Hundred Years' War. Much has been written about her life, but one of the most intriguing aspects of her story is what she said in her last moments. Historians and authors have shared various accounts of Joan's final words. This article delves into these accounts and provides insights into the events leading to her death.

Joan of Arc's Last Words: An Enigma

While there are multiple accounts of Joan of Arc's last words, they all share a common theme: her unwavering faith and determination to face her death with dignity.

On May 30, 1431, Joan of Arc was sentenced to death by burning at the stake for heresy. According to contemporary sources, her last statement was one of prayer. She cried out, "Jesus! Jesus!" as the flames consumed her body. This simple yet powerful word encapsulates the essence of her faith and her enduring legacy.

Accounts of Joan's Last Moments

Historians have recorded various versions of the last words spoken by Joan of Arc. Each version sheds light on her character and the events surrounding her execution.

"Jesus! Jesus! Jesus!"

The most widely believed account is that Joan of Arc repeated the name of Jesus multiple times as a plea for divine intervention. Father Jean Massieu, a court bailiff, reported hearing her say, "Jesus!" several times. This version is often cited in historical texts and accurately reflects her unwavering faith to the very end.

"Hold the cross high so I may see it through the flames!"

Another version suggests that Joan of Arc wanted the cross to be held in the level of her eyes. This indicates her desire to maintain her faith and the physical manifestation of it (the cross) even in her final moments.

"Bugger me that's hot!"

One of the most unconventional versions suggests that Joan of Arc might have cursed and complained about the heat of the flames. While this account is less likely to be true, it adds a human touch to her final moments, allowing us to imagine her pain and discomfort.

Contemporary Accounts and Historical Accuracy

Contemporary sources provide valuable insight into the events leading up to Joan of Arc's execution. Bishop Cauchon, the ecclesiastical judge who sentenced her, approaches her with a final plea for repentance. Joan responds with a poignant statement: "I die through you." This statement has been recorded in various historical documents and provides a powerful counterpoint to her repeated cries of "Jesus! Jesus!"

Leonard Cohen's Version

Leonard Cohen's poetic rendition of Joan of Arc's last words offers a different perspective. His version includes the line "Then fire make your body cold / I'm going to give you mine to hold," providing a poignant and enduring image of her final moments.

The Aftermath: Scattering of Ashes

Following her execution, Joan of Arc's remains were subjected to a symbolic act of erasure. Her ashes were scattered in the Seine River, a move designed to defile her memory and render her essentially non-existent. This act of desecration reflects the historical context of the times and the efforts of those in power to erase her legacy.

Conclusion

Joan of Arc's last words continue to intrigue and provoke discussions about her character and faith. Whether she was praying, calling out the name of Jesus, or cursing the flames, her final moments represent a significant moment in history. The accounts of her last words serve as a testament to her unwavering spirit and her enduring impact on the world.