Personal Recollections of Joan of Arc — Volume 1

A rare, newly rendered translation brings to life a personal account written by the young maiden’s own page and secretary. Drawn from an unpublished manuscript preserved in France’s National Archives, the narrative offers an intimate glimpse of Joan’s earliest days, her simple village origins, and the vivid visions that set her on a path few could imagine. The translator’s thoughtful introduction frames her extraordinary character against the brutality of a tumultuous century, inviting listeners to meet the woman before legend took hold.

The first act follows Joan’s emergence as a determined, humble figure who refuses honor and wealth, seeking only to return to her home and tend her flock. Listeners hear her steadfast courage, unwavering honesty, and the dawning sense of purpose that compels her to rally a fractured army and restore hope to a kingdom in chains. This portrait captures the raw conviction that would soon drive her to the battlefield, offering a compelling portrait of a youth whose moral clarity shines across the ages.