Objective: To provide high school students with an understanding of the life, achievements, and impact of Joan of Arc on French history and the Hundred Years’ War.
Materials:
- Textbook or other reference materials on Joan of Arc and medieval European history
- Whiteboard or blackboard
- Markers or chalk
- Handout on Joan of Arc (with a timeline and key events)
- Video clip on Joan of Arc (optional)
- Map of France during the Hundred Years’ War
Lesson Duration: 60 minutes
Lesson Procedure:
I. Introduction (10 minutes)
A. Begin the lesson by engaging students in a brief discussion on the concept of heroism and courage in history.
B. Introduce Joan of Arc as a heroine who played a significant role in the history of France during the Hundred Years’ War.
C. Provide a brief overview of the medieval period and the conflict between France and England.
D. Explain that today’s lesson will focus on the life of Joan of Arc, her accomplishments, and her impact on French history.
II. Joan of Arc’s Early Life and Divine Calling (15 minutes)
A. Distribute the handout on Joan of Arc’s timeline and key events.
B. Discuss Joan of Arc’s early life, including her family background, upbringing, and religious devotion.
C. Explain the political climate in France during her time, with a focus on the Hundred Years’ War.
D. Discuss Joan’s divine calling, including her visions of saints and her conviction to support the Dauphin Charles, the future King Charles VII of France.
E. Encourage students to take notes and ask questions throughout the discussion.
III. Joan of Arc’s Military Career and Achievements (15 minutes)
A. Detail Joan’s journey to meet the Dauphin Charles and her role in the Siege of Orléans.
B. Discuss her military strategies, including the use of her banner and her encouragement of her troops.
C. Explain Joan’s role in the subsequent battles and the eventual coronation of Charles VII.
D. Show a video clip on Joan of Arc’s military career (optional).
IV. Joan of Arc’s Trial and Execution (10 minutes)
A. Discuss the circumstances that led to Joan of Arc’s capture by the Burgundians and her eventual sale to the English.
B. Explain the trial process, including the charges brought against her and the role of the Church.
C. Discuss Joan’s execution by burning at the stake and the impact of her death on the war and French morale.
V. Conclusion and Class Discussion (10 minutes)
A. Summarize the main points of Joan of Arc’s life, her accomplishments, and her impact on French history.
B. Engage students in a discussion about Joan’s legacy and how she has been remembered and celebrated as a symbol of courage and faith.
C. Encourage students to share their thoughts on the role of women in history and how Joan of Arc’s story challenges gender stereotypes.
D. Assign students to research and prepare a short presentation on another historical figure who demonstrated courage and determination in the face of adversity (e.g., Harriet Tubman, Nelson Mandela, Malala Yousafzai) for the next class.