CSI: MythologyThe Strange Case of the Girl with the Teflon Heart

Joan of Arc's DNA Goes under Microscope

from Sploid

When Joan of Arc was burned at the stake 575 years ago for witchcraft, the authorities wanted to make sure no trace was left of the girl warrior.

But scientists are now putting the charred remains of Joan under the microscope to see if it's really her.

Joan - known as Jeanne d'Arc to the French - said she was told by God to drive the filthy English out of France. She led many battles and became a great heroine.

Eventually, the English had her executed in Rouen, back in 1431.

Because her heart wouldn't burn on the pyre - locals said it was a miracle - her remains were torched twice again and what was left of her was thrown into the river.

But the few remaining bits of Joan will finally get a proper DNA test.

Genetic specialist Philippe Charlier is overseeing the examination of the old relics.

"We won't be able to say, 'Yes this is Joan of Arc', but within six months we will able to say if these remains belong to a female of 19 years old whose body was burned three times in Rouen in 1431," Dr. Charlier told the Guardian.