Saint Joan · Chapter
The Law of Change Is the Law of God explained
This chapter argues that the law of evolution and change is fundamental to divine law, using Joan of Arc as an example of a self-selected saint who represents the unaveraged individual against institutional hierarchies.
What happens
This chapter argues that the law of evolution and change is fundamental to divine law, using Joan of Arc as an example of a self-selected saint who represents the unaveraged individual against institutional hierarchies. It critiques the Church's democratic selection process for producing mediocrity rather than sanctity, and contends that heresy and misconduct are often the first appearances of progress, making tolerance essential for improvement.
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
Explores how all evolution in thought and conduct first appears as heresy, using Joan as a prime example of a self-selected saint challenging institutional norms.
- Individual vs. Institution
Contrasts the unaveraged individual (like Joan) with the official organization of the Church, arguing that institutions cannot compete with the direct choice of the Holy Ghost.
Characters to notice
- Joan of Arc
Cited as a self-selected saint who maintained her own ways, representing the unaveraged individual against the Church's hierarchical average.
- Christ
Referenced as the Word made Flesh, representing the individual beyond the mathematical average of God and Church.
Key passages
“The law of God is a law of evolution, and ... when the Churches set themselves against change as such, they are setting themselves against the law of God.”
Divine law is inherently progressive, so when religious institutions oppose change, they oppose God's will.
Central thesis linking divine law to evolutionary change.
“all evolution in thought and conduct must at first appear as heresy and misconduct.”
Every advance in ideas and behavior initially looks like heresy or wrongdoing.
Key argument for tolerating heresy as a driver of progress.
