Saint Joan Theme of Women and Femininity

Joan was an early pioneer of women's equality. In a time where it was completely unheard of, she wore men's clothes, became a soldier, and advised the most powerful men of her day, as Saint Joan details. She has inspired generations of women to challenge gender roles.

1. Why is it so threatening for Joan to dress like a man?
2. Is Joan unfeminine, or is she just a new kind of woman?
3. How much better has it gotten? What inequalities do women still face today?
4. Would Joan have been executed if she'd been born a man?

Joan's lack of interest in marriage and wearing of men's clothes challenges the patriarchal society of medieval Europe.

Despite, her chosen "masculine" lifestyle, Joan still demonstrates many "feminine" characteristics.