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Digvijay Pandya, Lovely Professional University Unit 25: Saint Joan: Characterization

Unit 25: Saint Joan: Characterization Notes

CONTENTS

Objectives
Introduction

25.1 Characterization

25.1.1 The Dauphin
25.1.2 Captain Jack Dunois

25.1.3 Captain de Stogumber
25.1.4 The Earl of Warwick

25.1.5 Bishop Cauchon
25.1.6 Joan

25.2 Summary

25.3 Keywords
25.4 Review Questions

25.5 Further Readings

Objectives

After studying this unit, you will be able to:
• Enumerate all the characters in the play;
• Discuss the criticism of each character.

Introduction

Most plays are a series of actions and therefore there is no surprise that the characters in Saint Joan are
defined by their actions. The Chaplain’s viciousness is shown in his relentlessly maniacal pursuit of Joan’s
execution. Cauchon and the Inquisitor’s compassion (at least to their way of thinking) is shown in the lengths
to which they go to try and get Joan to repent. King Charles’s lack of love for warfare (some call it cowardice)
is shown when he decides to negotiate for Paris instead of supporting Joan in her conquest. And, of course,
there’s Joan, herself—a woman of action to say the least. She single handedly inspires a movement which
unites all of France. Her actions define her as brash, daring, and maybe just a little bit proud. The characters
of the play have their own significance by their names. This unit illustrates the characterization of
the play Saint Joan their significance by their names.

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