“King of England, and you, duke of Bedford, who call yourself regent of the kingdom of France… settle your debt to the king of Heaven; return to the Maiden, who is envoy of the king of Heaven, the keys to all the good towns you took and violated in France.”
- c. 1412 – May 30, 1431
- French
- Military leader, Martyr, Saint of the Roman Catholic Church
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Quote
“King of England, and you, duke of Bedford, who call yourself regent of the kingdom of France… settle your debt to the king of Heaven; return to the Maiden, who is envoy of the king of Heaven, the keys to all the good towns you took and violated in France.”
Explanation
This quote is a bold and direct address to the English rulers occupying France, issued with the authority Joan of Arc believed was granted by divine command. The “Maiden” refers to herself, and by calling for the return of the “keys” to the towns, she is demanding the restoration of sovereignty and justice for the French people under the higher authority of God. Her words place Heaven above all earthly kings, asserting that the English have committed offenses not only against France but against divine law.
In the historical context, Joan spoke these words during the Hundred Years’ War, a time when England controlled significant portions of northern France, including Paris. Her message was not merely political—it was prophetic. She positioned herself as God’s messenger, framing the war as a spiritual struggle. This was a radical assertion of divine legitimacy over human claims to power, especially for a young woman in a deeply patriarchal society.
Today, Joan’s declaration can be seen as a powerful call for moral accountability in leadership and warfare. The idea that rulers owe a “debt to Heaven” resonates with modern expectations that political power should be exercised with justice, humility, and a sense of responsibility. Her voice echoes in movements that challenge occupation, oppression, or colonialism, asserting that true legitimacy comes not from might, but from moral right.
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