Pope Joan

The audience's emotional response to 'Pope Joan' is primarily driven by a deep sense of **sadness** and **melancholy** stemming from Johanna's lifelong struggles against societal constraints, personal losses, and the tragic culmination of her secret identity. Strong **empathy** is evoked for her unwavering pursuit of knowledge and her resilience in a patriarchal world. The central **romance** with Count Gerold, while a source of **love**, ultimately contributes to the narrative's tragic arc. A pervasive **anxiety** and **anticipation** are present as viewers constantly fear her exposure. Despite the hardships, Johanna's intellectual drive and extraordinary rise against all odds inspire **inspiration** and a fragile sense of **hope** for overcoming adversity.