Something that strikes me about WWI posters is just how many different approaches were used to garner support for the cause. In her introduction, Pearl James outlines some of the various methods used for propaganda and how they varied across communities and nations. In every example, there is a massive disconnect between the image and the realities of war. The Joan of Arc poster below demonstrates a merging of powerful themes:

Joan of Arc is a fascinating choice of subject for many reasons. This image of an armored Joan of Arc with a sword in hand harkens back to a simpler time, in which very different methods of fighting were used. This effectively distances the viewer from the modern horrors experienced in the trenches. In reference to German posters, James asserts that the "recurrent use of an imagined medieval past as a way of consolidating viewers and cloaking the costs of modern warfare" (James 25). Joan of Arc does this successfully, and the striking image is both recognizable and fantastical.

The poster also communicates an international message. It was created by the United States Treasury Department, so the words "Joan of Arc Saved France" could be seen as an attempt to bridge national boundaries. This historical figure could just as easily be included in posters in other countries due to the popularity of her story. Furthermore, her sainthood puts forth the theme of Christianity that also transcends nationality.

The poster depicts a strong woman who fought alongside men. As this is aimed at Americans on the homefront, this seems to be a rallying cry for women to "Buy war savings stamps" in order to feel as if they are fighting alongside the men. Along these lines, James explores many ideas concerning posters' depictions of women. In reference to American posters, James writes, "War posters register a profound confusion about women's place in the nation-at-war" (James 30). When considered next to other posters depicting women, many of which show them as mothers and nurses, this confusion is extremely evident.

In connection with Vera Brittain's Testament of Youth, Roland embodies a disconnect and romantic idealization of war when he first joins. In the same way the story of Joan of Arc seems otherworldly and distant, Roland's intellectualism and literary background provides him with a romantic idea of war. He wants to achieve some kind of glory. Vera might somewhat relate to the poster through her pursuit of nursing, since she does this to feel more connected to Roland while he is away.