Joan of Arc 

Michael Hayes painted this Joan of Arc in the 20th century, capturing the saint in a moment of serene introspection. The sword, grasped reverently, is not merely a weapon but a symbol of divine justice and spiritual resolve. Consider the sword’s evolution: from ancient bronze blades imbued with the power of gods, to medieval cruciform hilts symbolizing Christian faith. Here, Joan's closed eyes and posture connect to the iconography of saints in prayer, but also to classical sculptures of orators, conveying inner strength and unwavering determination. This sword echoes across time, appearing in countless guises, yet always retaining its primal essence as an emblem of power and righteousness. The image evokes intense emotional states through the motif of the raised sword, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. This gesture taps into collective memory, resonating with archetypal ideals of sacrifice and heroism. Thus, symbols are in constant flux, shaped by the currents of history and human psychology, resurfacing, evolving, and taking on new meanings in different contexts.