Saint Joan (1923) is one of George Bernard Shaw’s most celebrated plays, dramatising the life and trial of Joan of Arc. A powerful and thought-provoking work, the play presents Joan as a forceful and visionary figure who challenges the religious and political structures of her time. Shaw’s interpretation of her story goes beyond the traditional saintly image, portraying her as a charismatic leader, a rebel against societal norms, and a pioneer of creative evolution.
Blending historical drama with Shaw’s signature wit and sharp social critique, Saint Joan examines themes of faith, nationalism, power, and individualism. The play remains a timeless exploration of conviction and the cost of challenging the status quo, making it one of Shaw’s most enduring and thought-provoking works.
