Joan's Second Public Examination

After analyzing the records of the second public examination of Joan, which took place on Thursday, February 22, 1431, I am beginning to further quantify the accusers’ questions posed to Joan. While I have not yet determined an overall pattern of the Trial, the second public examination asked noticeably fewer question than the remaining third, fourth, fifth, and sixth public examinations. Only 11 questions were posed to Joan in the second public examination, however the transcript from the day is relatively lengthy in light of how little was recorded as having been asked. Interestingly enough, Joan is recorded as having given away a multitude of information during the second public examination, including having heard the voice from God beginning at age 13, although she is not asked many questions leaving one to assume Joan willingly afforded her accusers damaging information.  

Of the 11 questions asked within the second public examination, four were concerned with background and childhood information, five asked about religious imagery/visions, one question focused on her allegiance to the French (particularly to King Charles VII), and one regarding her male dress. I will be utilizing this source within the primary source analysis paper as well, in order to better explore its stark differences between the other public examination records.