This book provides a thorough reconsideration of Joan of Arc's 1431 trial, detailing the canon law of inquisitorial procedure and the ways in which the trial failed to follow the requirements. Kelly analyzes other trials of the time which did follow canon law: notably, Jean Ségueut's, which took place just before Joan's.

The study discusses what sorts of offenses were considered to be heretical or offenses against the faith. In doing so, it shows the violations of due process committed in Joan's trial, including weeks of interrogation before charges were levelled, and refusals of her appeals. The book also examines the 1455-56 trial that annulled the 1431 trial, exploring the activity (or lack thereof) between the trials. Kelly's consideration of these trials offers a new picture of a familiar historical figure.

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Henry Ansgar (Andy) Kelly is a Distinguished Research Professor of English at the University of California, Los Angeles, USA. He served as Director of the Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies (now the CMRS Center for Early Global Studies) and editor of its Journal, Viator.