On today’s podcast, we’re talking with guest Helen Castor, author of Joan of Arc: A History (Harper, May 2015). Castor argues that most people see Joan of Arc as an empty vessel—someone to whom they can attach meaning, given the extraordinary nature of her life and accomplishments. Castor does not discount those conversations, but her book places Joan of Arc more firmly in the context of her time and place.

Music this hour:

• “Soldiertype (militarised)” by Ketsa, from the album What’s Without’s Within
• “Elle va au Japon” by Nic Bommarito, from the album A Quiet Age
• “Il Pleut des Informations (ou Mass Media en Masse à Partir de Notre Cumulonimus Fiable)” by Monroeville Music Center, from the album Le Progrés
• “Á Minuit, le 31 Décembre” by Monroeville Music Center, from the album Le Progrés