Dr. Vincent Ryan – Joan of Arc and the Maid of Orleans on Inside the Pages with Kris McGregor

About this episode

Dr. Vincent Ryan discusses the mystical life of Joan of Arc as presented in Sven Stolpe's book.

Dr. Vincent Ryan joins us to discuss Sven Stolpe’s “The Maid of Orleans: The Life and Mysticism of Joan of Arc” Dr. Vincent Ryan joins Kris McGregor to discuss The Maid of Orleans: The Life and Mysticism of Joan of Arc by Sven Stolpe, published by Ignatius Press. Dr. Ryan explains that although Joan of Arc is one of the most written-about figures of the Middle Ages, Stolpe’s book offers a fresh and compelling approach by focusing on her mystical life rather than reducing her to a political, national, or psychological symbol. Drawing from the trial records and the later rehabilitation trial, Stolpe presents Joan as a “typical mystic,” rooted in prayer, strengthened by grace, and united to Christ through suffering. Dr. Ryan notes that Joan’s own words, preserved through the legal proceedings surrounding her life and death, allow readers to encounter her spiritual depth with unusual clarity. The conversation explores Joan’s humble confidence, her concern for the sacramental life of the soldiers she led, and her steadfast fidelity amid misunderstanding, imprisonment, and trial. Dr. Ryan highlights how Stolpe avoids both overly sentimental hagiography and modern…

People in this episode

Host: Kris McGregor

Guest: Dr. Vincent Ryan

Topics covered

• Joan of Arc
• mysticism
• historical figures
• spirituality
• rehabilitation trial

Keywords

• Joan of Arc
• mysticism
• Sven Stolpe
• spiritual depth
• rehabilitation trial

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Ignatius Press

Books & works: The Maid of Orleans: The Life and Mysticism of Joan of Arc

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