"Joan of Arc" by Laura Elizabeth Howe Richards is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the life and legacy of Joan of Arc, focusing on her role as a peasant girl who rose to become a military leader during the Hundred Years' War. It delves into her visions and the socio-political turmoil of 15th-century France that shaped her extraordinary journey. At the start of the narrative, readers are introduced to the context in which Joan of Arc emerged as a pivotal figure. The text vividly outlines the suffering of France during the Great War and draws historical parallels, emphasizing that France has endured countless conflicts in its history. It establishes the atmosphere of despair and chaos brought on by internal strife and foreign invasion, setting the stage for Joan’s emergence. Her early life in Domrémy is depicted as serene yet shadowed by the conflicts of the time, hinting at her destined path. The beginning also hints at the miraculous events that will propel her into a leadership role, as she receives divine visions urging her to aid the king of France and reclaim her country. (This is an automatically generated summary.)