Why do you think the English believed that Joan was a heretic
There are several reasons why the English believed that Joan of Arc was a heretic:
1. French nationalism: Joan of Arc played a significant role in boosting French morale and inspiring French troops during the Hundred Years' War against the English. Her successes on the battlefield threatened English interests and were considered a challenge to the English occupation of France. Therefore, branding her as a heretic was a way to undermine her credibility and the legitimacy of her actions.
2. Political threat: Joan's influence and popularity posed a threat to the English-controlled French monarchy, led by the weak King Charles VII. By presenting Joan as a heretic, the English could discredit her involvement in political affairs and diminish her influence.
3. Gender and religious authority: Joan's rejection of traditional female roles, her audacity to lead an army, and her claims of receiving divine guidance challenged societal norms and religious authority. The prevailing belief at the time was that women should be submissive, and religious authority rested with the clergy. Joan's actions blurred these gender and religious boundaries, making her a target for accusations of heresy.
4. Religious controversy: Joan claimed to receive visions from saints and heard divine voices, which guided her actions. These claims caused religious controversy, as some church figures disputed her ability to communicate directly with God. The English used this controversy to accuse her of practicing witchcraft and consorting with demons, both considered heretical activities by the Church.
5. Capture by the Burgundians: Joan was eventually captured by the Burgundians, English allies who were hostile toward her. They sold her to the English, who then put her on trial. The Burgundians had their own political motivations for labeling Joan a heretic, as her successes threatened their interests and alliance with the English.
Overall, a combination of political, religious, and gender-related factors contributed to the English belief that Joan of Arc was a heretic.