It's 1432 France. England and Burgundy continue to occupy its towns. Joan of Arc is dead. François de Montcorbier is another martyr for the cause who is burnt at the stake. His widow collects his ashes in a locket and gives it to the baby François Villon (John Barrymore) who would grow up to be the most beloved poet in France. Besides being a poet, he's a prankster, pickpocket, patriot, and a man of the people. The Duke of Burgundy is trying to steal the throne and starts hating François with a vengeance. The King banishes François to appease the Duke. This is a fun John Barrymore performance. It's a fun swashbuckling silent film. I care less about the plot. I like the surreal sets and Barrymore jumping around. He's a good rogue.