Gilles de Rais

Gilles de Rais, Baron de Rais was a French knight and lord whose estates extended across Brittany, Anjou and Poitou. He served as one of the captains of the French royal army during the Hundred Years' War and took part in the same campaigns as Joan of Arc in 1429, ending with the failed siege of Paris. Little is known about the nature of his relationship with Joan of Arc, despite fictional portrayals that depict them as close companions. He is best known for his conviction for the rape and murder of numerous children.