Secondary school pupils across the UK are being taught that Joan of Arc was non-binary.
In Collins’ ‘Who We Are’ anthology, which has lesson plans tailored for students between 11 and 14, the medieval figure’s gender identity is discussed.
One page features a biography of the French heroine that reads: “Joan of Arc (1412-31) is today considered by some to have been non-binary.”
The patron saint of France cut her hair in a short bob and took to wearing male clothes.
The patron saint of France cut her hair in a short bob and took to wearing male clothes
Both of these traits were used against during her trial for heresy in 1431, which saw her burnt to death on a stake.
However, she never claimed to be not female, and never used the term “non-binary”, which first gained traction three decades ago.
The description has enraged some in the academic community, with one branding it as “insulting” both to Joan and other women.
Robert Tombs, professor emeritus of French history at the University of Cambridge, told The Telegraph: “Joan of Arc fought as a woman and died as a woman.
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“To call her something else is insulting to her and indirectly to all women who are brave enough to risk their lives for their beliefs – as if women are incapable of heroism.”
Carolyn Brown, of the Women's Rights Network, added: “This is yet another ridiculous example of attempting to rewrite history and erase strong, rebellious female characters from our past.”
She slammed the term non-binary as “nonsense” and criticised Collins for imposing “junk science of queer theory on children”.
A teacher said the lesson plan ignored the fact that children are “vulnerable to reality-denying nonsense like this when it is presented earnestly”.
Secondary school pupils across the UK are being taught that Joan of Arc was non-binary (stock)
GETTYJoan of Arc’s gender identity has been questioned before. In 2022, a Globe Theatre production portrayed the heroine as non-binary.
During publicity for the show, the playhouse used the pronouns 'they' and 'them' when referring to the French historical figure.
Michelle Terry, artistic director of The Globe, said: “For centuries, Joan has been a cultural icon portrayed in countless plays, books, films, etc.
“History has provided countless and wonderful examples of Joan portrayed as a woman.
“This production is simply offering the possibility of another point of view.”
GB News has approached Collins for comment.