Jeanne d’Arc in Fate: A Comprehensive Guide to the Maid of Orleans

Introduction

The Fate series has captivated audiences worldwide with its unique blend of historical figures, mythology, and epic battles. At its heart, the series revolves around the Holy Grail War, a conflict where Servants, heroic spirits from across history, are summoned to fight for the ultimate wish-granting device: the Holy Grail. One of the most beloved and iconic Servants within this sprawling universe is Jeanne d’Arc, better known as the Maid of Orleans. This article delves into the life, character, and significance of Jeanne d’Arc within the Fate franchise, providing a comprehensive guide to this inspiring figure. From her historical background to her various iterations in the Fate multiverse, we explore everything that makes Jeanne d’Arc a compelling and unforgettable character.

Historical Background

Before we explore Jeanne’s role in the world of Fate, it’s crucial to understand the real-life person behind the legend. Jeanne d’Arc was a French peasant girl who, during the tumultuous Hundred Years’ War, claimed to have received divine visions from Saint Michael, Saint Catherine, and Saint Margaret. These visions commanded her to lead the French army against the English, and she ultimately played a pivotal role in the French victory at the Siege of Orléans in 1429. This victory was a turning point in the war, and Jeanne became a national hero. However, her successes were short-lived. She was later captured by the Burgundians, allies of the English, and tried for heresy. Despite her unwavering faith, she was found guilty and burned at the stake at the age of nineteen. Centuries later, the Catholic Church recognized her sainthood, solidifying her legacy as a symbol of faith, courage, and unwavering devotion. The Fate series draws heavily from this historical narrative, using it as the foundation for its portrayal of Jeanne d’Arc.

Character and Personality in Fate

In the Fate universe, Jeanne d’Arc is typically summoned as a Ruler-class Servant. This class is unique because it is designed to oversee the Holy Grail War and to act as a neutral arbiter. While other Servants are driven by their own desires and goals, Jeanne, in her role as Ruler, strives to ensure that the conflict is conducted fairly and that the Grail is used for its intended purpose. This fundamental difference in motivation sets her apart from many of her peers, giving her a sense of morality and compassion rarely seen in the brutal world of the Holy Grail Wars. Her appearance in the Fate series reflects her iconic imagery. She is often depicted in shining plate armor, a white flag bearing a Fleur-de-lis (the emblem of France), and a determined expression that reflects her unwavering faith. These visual elements instantly identify her and are crucial to her representation in the Fate series.

Key Traits

At the core of her character lies a profound sense of faith and a commitment to justice. Jeanne is portrayed as a pious and kind-hearted individual who genuinely believes in God’s will. She approaches every situation with compassion, showing kindness to both friend and foe. Her dedication to her faith is not just a superficial trait; it is the driving force behind her actions. This unwavering belief gives her the courage to face overwhelming odds and to stand against injustice. However, her character isn’t without complexity. While she is fundamentally good, she can be naive at times, especially when dealing with the Machiavellian intrigues that often plague the Holy Grail Wars. Furthermore, she struggles to reconcile her faith with the darker aspects of human nature. Witnessing the cruelty and violence of war often challenges her belief that divine intervention is always a benevolent force. These moments of internal conflict add depth to her character, making her relatable and human.

Abilities and Noble Phantasms

Jeanne’s abilities are centered around her role as a Servant of the Ruler class. As a Servant, she possesses enhanced physical capabilities, including strength, endurance, and magical resistance. Her true power, however, lies in her Noble Phantasms, which are the crystallization of her legend and the embodiment of her heroic deeds.

Lumière Éternelle

One of her most significant Noble Phantasms is **Lumière Éternelle** (Eternal Light). This powerful ability manifests as a colossal, shimmering wall of light that provides absolute defense. It is an invocation of her faith and her unwavering belief in divine protection. The wall is almost impenetrable and can repel attacks, making it an incredibly effective defensive tool.

La Pucelle

Another significant Noble Phantasm is **La Pucelle** (The Maid). This is an interesting, and also tragic, Noble Phantasm. It embodies her unfulfilled wish for a peaceful life and her virginity. When activated, it forces Jeanne to use herself as a weapon, sacrificing her existence for a powerful, localized attack. It is a powerful attack but comes at a terrible cost.

Combat Style

Jeanne’s combat style is often characterized by defensive maneuvers and strategic thinking. While she isn’t a brute force fighter, her ability to create a formidable defensive barrier and her understanding of the battlefield makes her a powerful opponent. She doesn’t seek out violence, preferring to resolve conflict peacefully if possible. However, when faced with overwhelming aggression or injustice, she is more than capable of defending herself and those she cares about.

Jeanne’s Role in the Fate Series

Jeanne’s role in the Fate series has been significant, with her character appearing in several key titles.

Fate/Apocrypha

One of her most prominent roles is in **Fate/Apocrypha**. She is the Ruler-class Servant, tasked with overseeing the Great Holy Grail War, a conflict between two factions of Servants, each consisting of seven heroes. Jeanne strives to maintain order and to ensure that the war is conducted fairly. She is deeply concerned that the Grail might be corrupted and must navigate the complex politics and betrayals that arise within the war. This role highlights her unwavering commitment to justice, even when confronted with corruption and deceit. The series explores her interactions with other Servants, her desire to prevent bloodshed, and her efforts to understand the motives of those involved in the conflict. She also forms close bonds, particularly with Sieg, the homunculus who becomes entangled in the war.

Fate/Grand Order

In **Fate/Grand Order**, Jeanne d’Arc appears in various forms, cementing her status as a popular and important character. Her presence in the mobile game allows for deeper exploration of her character, her motivations, and her relationships. The game expands on her character’s history, showing her interactions with the Master (the player) and the various historical events that occur throughout the story. Players come to appreciate her kindness, her strength, and her unwavering dedication to what she believes in.

Significance and Impact

Jeanne d’Arc’s appeal lies in her ability to embody ideals like faith, courage, and selflessness. She is a beacon of hope in a world often filled with darkness and despair. She is a figure who refuses to compromise her principles, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. Her character is a source of inspiration for many fans, reminding them of the importance of standing up for what is right, even when the odds are stacked against them.

Values Represented

Jeanne’s popularity stems from the core values she represents. While the Fate series is filled with characters with various strengths and weaknesses, Jeanne’s devotion to justice and compassion sets her apart. Her story touches upon complex moral issues. Her ability to retain hope in the face of the violence and corruption of war makes her character even more appealing. She stands as a symbol of hope and goodness and a reminder of the importance of faith in the face of seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Jeanne d’Arc Alter and Other Variations

The Fate series has explored different iterations of Jeanne d’Arc, adding nuances to her character and offering insights into the complexities of her story.

Jeanne d’Arc Alter

Perhaps the most well-known alternate version is **Jeanne d’Arc Alter**. This version of Jeanne is a corrupted version of the character, born from the Grail’s corruption. Her appearance shifts, her armor darkens, and her personality takes on a more cynical and ruthless edge. She represents the embodiment of the pain and suffering that Jeanne experienced in life. Driven by rage and a desire for retribution, she becomes a formidable antagonist. Her goals and motivations differ significantly from the original Jeanne. She seeks to punish humanity for its flaws and to bring about a world of order based on her own distorted ideals of justice.

Other Variations

Jeanne d’Arc and Jeanne d’Arc Alter are some of the different versions fans can enjoy. Each version explores her personality from a different angle.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Jeanne d’Arc is an essential character within the Fate universe. From her historical roots to her embodiment of faith, courage, and compassion, she has become a beloved icon. Her ability to inspire, her commitment to justice, and her unwavering spirit make her a character that resonates with audiences worldwide. Whether you’re familiar with her from Fate/Apocrypha, Fate/Grand Order, or other appearances, it’s clear that Jeanne d’Arc will remain a cornerstone of the Fate franchise for years to come. Her enduring popularity underscores the enduring power of her story and the timeless appeal of the ideals she represents. The Maid of Orleans remains a true inspiration.