The Coronation of George V - Militant as Joan of Arc

     This photograph shows WSPU member Marjorie Bryce as Joan of Arc. The significance of this photo relates back to the importance of the symbol of the WSPU. These women recognized the importance of the creating an image. For them the coronation of George V offered a fantastic opportunity to exhibit a strong image. The reason that the WSPU did not react militantly during this coronation came from an agreement made earlier for the WSPU to suspend militant activity during the coronation because of the upcoming vote on the Conciliation Bill. This bill had the opportunity to give some of the female population of Britain suffrage, so the various women's organizations all agree to suspend activity during the coronation as an act of good faith.

     This image of the WSPU alone would be quite strong, yet with the added connection to Joan of Arc made this image even greater. Joan of Arc historically has held a connection to a strong independent woman who stood up against many people, notably the English government. This image helped to give British women a connection to a strong woman. This helped the WSPU in creating a positive image for themselves, especially with the level of dislike the public harbored for the militant women. This rest in their activities sought to create a different understanding of the WSPU who at the time attempted to work with the government, this proved to be futile with the rise of the Manhood Suffrage Bill, which could be reformed to include women. Instead of using the Conciliation Bill, which would have offered women a better chance of receiving the vote!