Joan as the Apostle of Nationalism in George Bernard Shaw's Saint Joan

George Bernard Shaw's Saint Joan portrays Joan of Arc as a visionary and revolutionary figure who embodies the spirit of nationalism. Through Joan’s actions and beliefs, Shaw presents her as a symbol of patriotism, emphasizing her role in uniting the French people under a common cause. Joan’s nationalism is not just political but spiritual, as it emerges from her divine mission to restore France’s sovereignty and dignity. This discussion explores how Shaw’s Joan exemplifies the principles of nationalism and challenges existing power structures.

Joan’s nationalism is grounded in her unwavering commitment to liberating France from English domination. Her claim to hear divine voices inspires her to lead a military campaign to restore the Dauphin’s rightful position as King of France. This mission transcends personal ambition, focusing instead on the collective identity and freedom of the French people. Joan declares:

"I am sent by God to deliver France from the English."

This statement underscores her role as a unifying figure, motivated by faith and patriotism. Joan’s vision of national unity challenges the feudal divisions and rivalries that had weakened France, emphasizing a broader sense of shared purpose and identity.

Joan’s nationalism disrupts traditional power structures, including the Church and the feudal hierarchy. By asserting that her authority comes directly from God, she bypasses the established institutions that mediated between the divine and the people. This poses a threat to both the English and the Catholic Church, as it undermines their claims to political and spiritual supremacy.

Joan’s assertion of French sovereignty also confronts the medieval concept of transnational allegiance to the Church and feudal lords. Her insistence on France’s independence highlights the emerging idea of nationalism as a force that prioritizes the identity and autonomy of a specific nation-state over universal or hierarchical systems.

Shaw portrays Joan as a proto-modern nationalist who anticipates the principles of self-determination and popular sovereignty. Her ability to inspire loyalty and unity among the French people reflects her role as a leader who embodies the aspirations of the nation. Joan’s appeal is not limited to military strategy; her charisma and moral conviction make her a symbol of hope and resistance.

Joan’s trial and martyrdom further solidify her role as a nationalist icon. Despite her condemnation by the Church and the English authorities, she remains steadfast in her belief in France’s divine mission. Her execution transforms her into a martyr for the cause of national freedom, ensuring her enduring legacy as a symbol of patriotism.

While Shaw portrays Joan as the Apostle of Nationalism, he also introduces complexities that prevent her from being a simplistic nationalist hero. Joan’s unwavering faith and defiance of authority raise questions about the potential dangers of extreme individualism and zeal. Her rejection of traditional power structures could be interpreted as a precursor to the challenges posed by unchecked nationalism in later centuries.

Moreover, Shaw presents Joan’s nationalism as deeply tied to her spiritual beliefs, suggesting that her patriotism is not merely political but also metaphysical. This duality complicates her role as a nationalist, as her motivations extend beyond worldly concerns to a divine mission.

In Saint Joan, George Bernard Shaw portrays Joan of Arc as an Apostle of Nationalism, a figure whose faith and determination galvanize the French people to assert their national identity and independence. Her vision of a unified and sovereign France challenges established authorities and reflects the early stirrings of modern nationalism. However, Shaw’s nuanced characterization of Joan invites reflection on the complexities of her mission, blending nationalism with spiritual devotion and highlighting the potential risks of radical individualism. Through Joan, Shaw explores the transformative power of nationalism as both an inspiring and disruptive force in history.