Series & First Appearance
Jeanne d’Arc, known as the Standard-Bearer who Correctly Guides the Holy Grail War, first appears in the anime series Fate/Apocrypha, created by Yuichiro Higashide, and produced by A-1 Pictures. She is based on the historical figure, Joan of Arc, and her character art is designed by Mitsuki Nakamura. She also prominently appears in Fate/Grand Order and Fate/Zero, which adds further depth to her character and lore.
Profile at a Glance
Jeanne d’Arc is portrayed as a young woman of apparent age around 16-19 years, characterized primarily as a Ruler-class Servant. As a prominent figure in the Holy Grail War, she acts as an impartial mediator while seeking to guide others toward righteousness. Her signature weapon is her Noble Phantasm, La Pucelle, which reflects her legendary status as the Saint of Orléans.
Personality & Motivations
Jeanne is defined by her unwavering faith and sense of justice, demonstrating compassion and empathy toward both allies and enemies. Her internal struggle often revolves around her desire to save humanity while grappling with the tragic burdens of her past. Known for her sincere and hopeful demeanor, her catchphrase can be considered as a metaphorical declaration of her faith: “For the sake of the people, I will fight!” Her deeply rooted convictions often lead her to moments of doubt, especially regarding her feelings for Sieg, the Homunculus she tries to guide.
Abilities / Powers
Jeanne possesses several notable abilities which include:
- Divine Protection: As a Ruler, she has the ability to oversee the Holy Grail War, ensuring fairness among combatants.
- Noble Phantasm – La Pucelle: This powerful ability allows her to unleash divine light for purification and retribution, often at a great personal cost.
- Combat Skills: Jeanne is proficient in combat, utilizing her quick reflexes and divine attributes to engage enemies effectively.
- Limitations: Despite her strength, Jeanne grapples with the lack of a true spiritual form in Fate/Apocrypha, which limits her abilities and emotional resolve.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
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Fate/Apocrypha: Jeanne is summoned under unusual circumstances, causing her to inhabit the body of Laeticia, a willing host, which leads to dramatic personal conflict and dilemmas as she strives to guide Sieg. Her encounters with both Shirou and Shakespeare force her to ground herself in her faith while battling inner turbulence.
- Fate/Grand Order: In the Final Singularity – Grand Temple of Time: Solomon, Jeanne plays a crucial role in rallying Heroic Spirits against the Demon Gods, showcasing her leadership skills and allegiance to humanity. Her evolution culminates in self-sacrifice, where she fights not just for victory but for the ideals she believes in, solidifying her character arc.
Notable Relationships
- Sieg: A pivotal figure in Jeanne’s life, with whom she shares a complicated bond throughout the series. Their relationship transitions from mentorship to deep emotional connection, creating some of the most poignant moments in the narrative.
- Gilles de Rais: Once a comrade, their past intertwines with tragedy, highlighting themes of betrayal and redemption as he often torments her memories related to their joint past.
- Shirou: Represents the moral complexities of salvation and leadership, serving as both a rival and a mirror to Jeanne’s motivations and choices.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
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Confrontation with Shakespeare: During her showdown with Shakespeare in Fate/Apocrypha, he invokes her past and psychological fears, even summoning Gilles de Rais to exacerbate her struggle. This moment defines her narrative arc, where she must confront her deepest vulnerabilities.
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- Final Act: In her ultimate sacrifice, she employs La Pucelle vividly demonstrating her relentless spirit against Shirou, marking a powerful conclusion to her character in a dramatic and emotionally charged battle. This statement, "I will fight for those who cannot," reverberates significance among fans, emphasizing her role as a guardian of hope.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
- Jeanne d’Arc ranks favorably in various character popularity polls within the Fate franchise, boasting over 2,173 member favorites, highlighting her resonance with the audience.
- Her character is voiced by Maaya Sakamoto in Japanese, portraying a balance of innocence and determination, while in the English dubbed version, she is voiced by Megan Shipman, conveying similar themes of nobility.
- The character draws heavily from real historical context, embodying themes of faith, sacrifice, and heroism, which have made her a perennial figure in adaptations beyond the Fate series, including literature and film.
In summary, Jeanne d’Arc’s character is intricately woven into the fabric of the Fate universe, embodying a compelling blend of historical and fictional traits that resonate deeply with fans and serve as a testament to her enduring legacy.
