From peasant poverty to being canonized as a Saint by the Roman Catholic church, Joan of Arc is a historical icon. Not to mention the fact that there might not be a woman more revered by the French people than her. Throughout her short life, Joan allegedly heard voices.
She believed that God has given her the responsibility to ensure that Charles VII of France ascended to the throne to save France. After convincing Charles to allow her to do so, Joan led the French army to victory over England in the city of Orléans. Did we mention this was all at the tender age of 17!
Jane Austen
Jane Austen, the celebrated author whose name has become synonymous with timeless literary British works, was born into a family that revered knowledge and the written word. With remarkable talent and insight, Austen delved into the intricate webs of human emotions, exploring themes of love, societal status, and marriage within the context of the 18th-century landed gentry.
Her novels, such as the beloved "Pride and Prejudice," "Sense and Sensibility," and "Emma," not only captivated readers with their compelling narratives. But they also offered a glimpse into the lives of ordinary individuals navigating their way through the complexities of their time.
Classical Depiction
In addition to her exploration of love and societal status, Jane's literary prowess also illuminated the precarious reliance women of her time placed on marriage as a means to attain a semblance of security. Her works, characterized by their exquisite prose and astute observations, have transcended the boundaries of time and continue to be revered as enduring literary masterpieces.
They resonate deeply with scholars, critics, and readers across generations, capturing the essence of human experiences with remarkable precision. The Jane Austen Centre in Bath, paying meticulous attention to detail, employed a combination of Jane Austen's brother's portraits, cutting-edge forensic technology, and expertly crafted waxwork.
Joan In Disguise
At the tender age of 19, Joan's valiant journey took a tragic turn when she was ultimately seized by the Burgundian army. Accused of witchcraft and heresy, she faced a harrowing trial that ended in her agonizing execution by being burned at the stake. However, history would eventually right the profound injustice inflicted upon her.
In 1920, her conviction was rightfully overturned, and Joan of Arc was posthumously bestowed the honor of sainthood, becoming a revered Saint in the eyes of the faithful. A striking wax figure now stands as a testament to her indomitable spirit, featuring her iconic cropped hair and donning armor.
Mary Rose Archer
The Mary Rose, a magnificent carrack-type warship, proudly served as a stalwart vessel within the English Tudor navy under the reign of King Henry VIII. Throughout its illustrious 33-year service, this formidable ship courageously faced the perils of numerous conflicts against France, Scotland, and Brittany.
However, it was on that fateful day, July 19th, 1545, that the Mary Rose led a daring assault against an encroaching French fleet, only to meet a tragic fate in the treacherous waters north of the Isle of Wight. The exact cause of its sinking remains an enigma that continues to intrigue historians and maritime enthusiasts alike, leaving the story of the Mary Rose forever shrouded in mystery.