We live in difficult times, where the beliefs of the general public outweigh those of the individual. Most individuals are willing to conform to the beliefs of society than "stand firm" on their own convictions. But, it is our beliefs that lay the foundations for who and what we are. An individual's convictions to his or her beliefs require at times great effort. Saint Joan of Arc is a testament to the definitive conviction to one's beliefs and faith. She lived in an era of turmoil, and in a society that pressured individuals to conform to the beliefs of society. However, through convictions to her faith, Joan of Arc saved a nation and forever changed the world. .
             To understand the impact of Joan of Arc in society, one must know her life story. Beware that the history of Joan of Arc has been tainted by the opinions of writers through the ages (Barstow, 121 & Guillemin, 24). Due to these various interpretations, Joan's true life story remains a mystery. It is known that Joan of Arc was born to a peasant family in Domremy, France around 1412 A.D. She had no formal schooling but, from an early age, was taught formal prayer. At the age of thirteen, she heard voices from St. Michael, St. Catherine and St. Margaret that proclaimed her destiny.
             I heard the voice on the right-hand side, towards the church; and rarely do I hear it without brightness...The voice was sent to me by God and, after I had heard it three times, I knew it was a voice of an angel. (Ghezzi, 342).
             These voices revealed God's plan for Joan. They told her to help restore Charles VII as the King of France and bring order to the nation. This little girl could neither ride a horse nor lead an army. Yet, her faith in the will of God led her to get on a horse and take up a sword to lead the French army. Through Joan, the armies of France rose up and defeated the English. Charles VII was restored to t
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