Saint Joan · Chapter
The Epilogue explained
Shaw defends the inclusion of the epilogue, arguing that Joan's true significance began with her execution and canonization, not ended with her death.
What happens
Shaw defends the inclusion of the epilogue, arguing that Joan's true significance began with her execution and canonization, not ended with her death. He contrasts the triviality of accidental burning with the profound importance of sainthood, insisting that the epilogue is necessary to show both the incinerated Joan and the canonized Joan.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Rising action.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This passage is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Shaw directly…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Heresy and Sanctity
Shaw contrasts Joan's execution as a heretic with her later canonization as a saint, highlighting the transformation of her legacy.
- Historical Interpretation
Shaw insists that Joan's true historical significance begins with her death and canonization, challenging conventional narrative closure.
Characters to notice
- Joan of Arc
Referenced as both the incinerated martyr and the canonized saint; her history is said to begin with her execution.
Key passages
“I could hardly be expected to stultify myself by implying that Joan’s history in the world ended unhappily with her execution, instead of beginning there.”
Shaw argues that Joan's story does not end tragically at her execution; rather, her true historical impact begins at that point.
Shaw redefines the narrative arc of Joan's life, emphasizing her posthumous influence.
“for many a woman has got herself burnt by carelessly whisking a muslin skirt into the drawing room fireplace, but getting canonized is a different matter, and a more important one.”
Accidental death by fire is common and trivial, but achieving sainthood is rare and profoundly significant.
Shaw uses a domestic analogy to underscore the unique importance of Joan's canonization.
