Why did St. Joan of Arc urge Charles VII to go to Reims?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Painting by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres showing Joan of Arc in armor holding a banner at an altar during the coronation of Charles VII in Reims Cathedral, with figures praying behind her. — St. Joan of Arc *Joan of Arc at the Coronation of Charles VII in Reims Cathedral*, by Jean-Auguste-Dominique Ingres, 1854; in the Louvre, Paris.

St. Joan of Arc urged Charles VII to travel to Reims because she believed that only a formal coronation and consecration in that city could confirm his status as the true king, chosen by God.1

Historically, Reims was the traditional site where French kings were consecrated, a practice dating back to the baptism of Clovis. By insisting on this ceremony, Joan sought to overcome Charles’s own doubts regarding his legitimacy and to solidify his authority in the eyes of the people. Despite the hesitation of Charles and his counselors—who often preferred to focus on military campaigns in Normandy or other regions—Joan’s persistence ultimately prevailed, leading to his anointment on July 17, 1429.213