Last Podcast On The Left
Last Podcast On The Left
"Jeal de Ray was a 15th century French medieval nobleman who reputedly tortured, raped, and murdered hundreds of children in some of the most brutal ways imaginable in the castles on his many estates." — Ben Kissel
"This is not some dark ages tale. This is not rumor or legend. Our story occurred during the hundred years war. It heavily involves none other than Joan of Arc." — Marcus Parks
"The prophecy was that a woman will lose France, but a virgin shall save her. And this concept of this. Well, the Leo wasn't a virgin. No, the woman that law, that's like there's another person was the virgin." — Ben Kissel
This episode introduces Gilles de Rais, a 15th-century French nobleman, setting the stage within the context of the turbulent Hundred Years' War and the devastating Black Death. The hosts explore the social and political landscape of France, characterized by a decadent and often detached nobility, and the widespread violence and desolation experienced by the peasantry. Early life details of Gilles de Rais are presented, focusing on his privileged upbringing and the potential influences of his grandfather, Jean de Créon, a figure described as amoral and ruthless. The narrative then transitions to the remarkable emergence of Joan of Arc, detailing her rise from peasant girl to a pivotal figure in the French military. The episode highlights the early interactions and potential connection between Gilles de Rais and Joan of Arc, suggesting a shared experience on the battlefield and a possible, albeit unconventional, bond formed through their roles in the ongoing conflict. The discussion touches upon the historical debate surrounding Joan of Arc's authenticity and the potential for her to have been a carefully orchestrated symbol to rally French morale during a critical period.
The episode emphasizes that Gilles de Rais's notorious reputation and alleged atrocities occurred within a society where extreme violence was commonplace. The historical backdrop of the Hundred Years' War is detailed, outlining its protracted nature and the brutal conditions faced by soldiers and civilians alike. The complex succession issues in France and England at the time are discussed, setting the stage for the ongoing conflict. The narrative also explores the societal norms surrounding warfare, where looting and violence were often seen as part of a soldier's compensation. The early military career of Gilles de Rais is examined, noting his participation in battles and his development as a commander. The episode also delves into the spiritual and prophetic aspects surrounding Joan of Arc, including her claimed divine guidance and the critical role she played in galvanizing French forces. Her association with Gilles de Rais is presented as a point of historical interest, with speculation on the nature of their relationship beyond battlefield camaraderie. The episode concludes by setting up the continuation of Gilles de Rais's story in the following episode, promising a deeper dive into his more horrific acts once Joan of Arc's influence waned.
The discussion highlights the stark contrast between the societal chaos and the attempts to impose order and morality, particularly through Joan of Arc's influence on the French army's conduct. The episode contrasts the purported purity and divine mission of Joan of Arc with the growing evidence of Gilles de Rais's depravity. It touches upon the efforts to verify Joan of Arc's virginity and her divine mandate, underscoring the desperation for a unifying figure in France's darkest hour. The hosts also explore the financial sacrifices made by Charles VII to pay soldiers, an attempt to curb the rampant pillaging and violence. The episode reiterates that Gilles de Rais's own contributions to soldier pay may have been a strategic move to align himself with Joan's rising influence. Ultimately, the episode positions Gilles de Rais and Joan of Arc as two significant, albeit vastly different, figures whose lives became intertwined during a critical turning point in French history, with the promise of further revelations regarding de Rais's dark legacy.