The trial of Joan of Arc commenced in Rouen, where she faced charges primarily related to her claims of divine guidance and her unconventional attire, which included wearing men's clothing. Born in 1412 in Domrémy, France, Joan rose to prominence during the Hundred Years' War, leading French troops to critical victories based on her visions. Her capture by Burgundian troops in 1430 and subsequent handover to the English led to her trial by an ecclesiastical court, driven by both political and religious motivations. The inquisitorial process was marked by irregularities and biased interrogations, as the English sought to weaken French morale and delegitimize her image as a national heroine. In court, Joan was confronted with a series of detailed questions probing her faith and the nature of her experiences, but she remained resolute in her declarations of her divine mission.

The proceedings included notable figures such as Pierre Cauchon, the Bishop of Beauvais, who presided over the trial. The trial not only served as a means to punish Joan but also as a reflection of the ongoing struggles of the English and the French, as they fought for dominance over the French territory. Joan's assertive responses and unwavering conviction posed a challenge to the authority of the court. Ultimately, the trial was deeply emblematic of the intersection of nationalism, religion, and gender during a tumultuous time in French history. The outcome would lead to her eventual martyrdom, further solidifying her legacy.

The trial concluded with Joan being found guilty of heresy and witchcraft, leading to her execution by burning at the stake. The trial and her subsequent execution would later be recognized as a defining moment in French history, particularly influencing the narrative of the Hundred Years' War and igniting Joan's posthumous canonization as a saint. After her death, investigations into the fairness and motivations of her trial were conducted, eventually leading to her exoneration in 1456. This indicated a shift in perspective regarding her actions and contributions to France's fight against foreign occupation.