Joan of Arc’s dexterity in battle, courage in the face of her enemies, and ability to lead her people to supremacy are all characteristics that allow her to be defined as a literary hero of epic proportions. Joan of Arc, a great and powerful hero, emerged during the era of the Hundred Years War between England and France. At the early age of 13 she began hearing “voices,” from whom she claimed to be God, telling her to go out and use her skills in battle to aide the French in claiming the throne. For years she fought vigorously against the English leading her fellow Frenchmen to victory. After instilling a devastating blow to the English army at the Battle of Orléans, the French dauphin, Charles VII, was able to take up his rightful throne as King of France. Through her leadership and courage Joan earned the title, "Maid of Orléans." Eventually she was captured and imprisoned by the English. They charged her for heresy and witchcraft and ultimately sentenced to death by burning at the stake. Even up until the time of her death, Joan’s courage and strength held strong and for this she will forever be remembered as a true hero.
In order to clearly identify Joan of Arc as a literary hero, one must first define the word hero. A hero instills inspiration, stability, happiness, and hope into the people around them. To be a hero, one must possess these three defining qualities: strength, courage, and leadership. These characteristics must be exhibited through their words and actions. A hero must have the strength to overcome every encumbrance that is bestowed upon him or her, the courage to face any obstacle regardless of the outcome, and the ability to lead others with optimism and direction. Ultimately, a hero must be willing to risk life and limb for the good of his or her own people.
Despite Joan of Arc’s young age and reportedly diminutive stature, her physical prowess was legendary. She exhibited great physical strength in the heat of battle, where...