A graphic novel about Joan of Arc that brings one of European history's most iconic female figures to life through contemporary illustration inspired by Gothic aesthetics.
Jeanne
Thesis Project by G. Organtini - Undergraduate course in Illustration and Animation - IED Roma
Academic year
2025/2026
Jeanne is a graphic novel written and illustrated by Giulia Organtini for a young adult audience. Set during the Hundred Years' War, it follows the life of Joan of Arc, exploring both the events that made the young French heroine famous and the more personal, often overlooked aspects of her story. Combining historical research with a contemporary perspective, Giulia offers a fresh interpretation of a remarkable historical figure.
Through her storytelling and character development, Giulia portrays Joan of Arc not simply as a heroic figure, but as a young woman confronting discrimination, violence and prejudice in a male-dominated society. Historical research provides the foundation for a narrative that resonates with contemporary issues, including identity, women's empowerment and the right to self-determination.
Visually, Giulia develops a distinctive illustration style influenced by Gothic art and imagery, reinterpreting its atmosphere through the contemporary language of graphic storytelling. Her approach to character design, visual composition and narrative structure creates a recognisable visual world that makes a complex historical story engaging for younger readers, while retaining the expressive power and individuality of her illustrations.
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