Religious Figures · Medieval

Joan of Arc’s Last Words

January 6, 1412 May 30, 1431 Age 19 French
Jesus! Jesus! Jesus!
— Joan of Arc, May 30, 1431

Who Was Joan of Arc?

Joan of Arc was a French peasant girl who, claiming divine visions, led the French army to key victories during the Hundred Years' War before being captured and burned as a heretic at age 19.

The Final Moments

Joan was burned at the stake in the marketplace of Rouen by the English. Witnesses reported she called out the name of Jesus repeatedly as the flames consumed her. An English soldier said he saw her soul leave as a dove.

Are These Words Verified?

✓ High Confidence

Multiple eyewitnesses at the execution provided sworn testimony that she repeatedly called out 'Jesus.' These accounts were recorded in official trial documents.

Sources

  • archive Trial and execution records (1431)
  • firsthand Eyewitness depositions
  • archive Rehabilitation trial testimonies (1456)

Legacy

Joan of Arc is a national heroine of France and a Catholic saint. Her courage and martyrdom have inspired countless works of art, literature, and film.

saintHundred Years Warexecutiondivine visions

Frequently Asked Questions

What were Joan of Arc’s last words?

“Jesus! Jesus! Jesus!”

How did Joan of Arc die?

Joan of Arc died on May 30, 1431 at the age of 19. Cause of death: Execution by burning at the stake.

Were Joan of Arc’s last words documented?

Multiple eyewitnesses at the execution provided sworn testimony that she repeatedly called out 'Jesus.' These accounts were recorded in official trial documents.