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by Oliphant (Author)
The text provides a detailed account of the trial and rehabilitation of Jeanne d'Arc, focusing on the legal and ecclesiastical proceedings that led to her condemnation and subsequent exoneration. The trial, held in Rouen, was initiated by the Bishop of Beauvais, Pierre Cauchon, who accused Jeanne of heresy and other crimes against the faith. Despite her insistence on the divine origin of her mission and her refusal to fully disclose her changes in allegiance, Jeanne was subjected to rigorous questioning by a panel of assessors. The trial was marked by procedural irregularities, including the denial of legal counsel and the manipulation of her statements. Jeanne's unwavering faith and resilience were evident throughout the proceedings, even as she faced imprisonment and the threat of execution. The text also highlights the political motivations behind the trial, as the English sought to discredit Jeanne and undermine the legitimacy of Charles VII's reign. Following her execution, a posthumous retrial was conducted, leading to her rehabilitation and the annulment of the original verdict. This retrial, ordered by Pope Calixtus III, involved a comprehensive investigation into Jeanne's life and the circumstances of her trial, ultimately restoring her reputation and recognizing her as a martyr and a national heroine.
