Pastor Tracy Reads | Joan of Arc: A History by Helen Castor

March 11, 2026 | Pastor Tracy Troxel

If you do not want to read a work that may challenge your thinking, then do not read this book. Helen Castor provides an excellent recounting of spectacular historical events in the 1400’s in France. France is torn asunder by rival factions within France as well as rival powers that are pushing for control of France. Between English and Burgundian attempts to dominate France, there is no cohesive and unified control of France.

In the middle of these competing entities and confusing political times, a young peasant girl arrives on the scene claiming to hear voices from God and is willing to lead France to seek independence and put Charles on the throne of France. And initially this young peasant girl, who we know as Joan of Arc, does lead France to military victories. But defeat comes and then a church trial. And eventually, Joan of Arc receives the death sentence. Later, however, Joan’s earlier church trial is overturned and she is exonerated after her death. And, in the 20th Century she is recognized as a Saint in the Roman Catholic Church.

Make of this story what you will, what is fascinating is that the prophetic utterances made by Joan of Arc did in time come true. Was she a prophet? Was she a heretic? Or was it more of a mixed bag situation? While you may struggle to understand the story, it is an interesting story that challenges the secular framework that we find in place today.

Pastor Tracy Troxel