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The_Last_Lesson_Notes_Class12 (1)

The chapter 'The Last Lesson' explores themes of linguistic chauvinism and loss of identity as the Prussian rulers impose German on the French-speaking population. The story follows Franz, a schoolboy who realizes the importance of his language during his last French lesson with M. Hamel, who embodies patriotism and regret. The narrative emphasizes the deep emotional connection to one's mother tongue and the consequences of neglecting it.

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8 views2 pages

The_Last_Lesson_Notes_Class12 (1)

The chapter 'The Last Lesson' explores themes of linguistic chauvinism and loss of identity as the Prussian rulers impose German on the French-speaking population. The story follows Franz, a schoolboy who realizes the importance of his language during his last French lesson with M. Hamel, who embodies patriotism and regret. The narrative emphasizes the deep emotional connection to one's mother tongue and the consequences of neglecting it.

Uploaded by

arshavg2807
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Class 12 Flamingo English – Chapter 1: The Last Lesson

Central Theme
Linguistic Chauvinism & Loss of Identity
The story shows how the Prussian rulers tried to dominate the French people by
banning their mother tongue. It highlights the deep emotional connection people have
with their language, and how losing it feels like losing a part of their identity.

Summary
- Franz, a lazy schoolboy, is afraid of going to school as he hasn’t studied French
grammar.
- On reaching school, he is surprised by the quiet and serious environment.
- M. Hamel, the French teacher, announces this is their last French lesson.
- From the next day, German will be taught as Alsace and Lorraine have been captured
by Prussia.
- Villagers, including the blacksmith and old men, attend the class as a mark of respect
and regret.
- M. Hamel talks about the importance of one’s language and how it holds the key to
freedom.
- The story ends with M. Hamel too emotional to speak and writing “Vive La France!” on
the board.

Character Sketches
- Franz: Young boy, initially careless, realizes the value of his language too late.
- M. Hamel: Dedicated and patriotic French teacher. Symbol of language pride and
regret.
- Villagers: Including old Hauser, regret ignoring education. Show community’s
realization and respect.
- Blacksmith: Minor character. Sarcastically tells Franz “You’ve plenty of time.” Symbol
of earlier carelessness.

Important Themes
- Linguistic Chauvinism: Prussians imposing German over French to show power and
cultural dominance.
- Loss & Regret: People realize the value of their language and education only when it's
being taken away.
- Patriotism: M. Hamel's deep love for France and its language.
- Importance of Mother Tongue: Language is not just communication; it's identity,
culture, and pride.

Key Quotes
1. “When people are enslaved, as long as they hold fast to their language it is as if they
had the key to their prison.”
→ Highlights how language = freedom.

2. “Vive La France!”
→ “Long live France” — M. Hamel’s final, silent cry of love for his country.

Word Meanings
- Reproach: To blame or criticize
- Angelus: Church bell rung for prayer
- Thunderclap: Sudden shocking news
- Commotion: Disturbance, chaos
- Linguistic Chauvinism: Belief that one’s language is superior

Moral / Message
- Never take your language, culture, or education for granted.
- Realize the importance of your mother tongue before it’s too late.
- Language binds people with their roots and builds national identity.

Exam-Ready Q&A
Q1. What does 'The Last Lesson' teach us about linguistic chauvinism?
Ans: It shows how the Prussian rulers forced the French-speaking people of Alsace to
learn German. This domination reflects linguistic chauvinism, where one language is
imposed over another, leading to cultural loss.

Q2. Why was Franz surprised when he reached school?


Ans: He found the class unusually quiet and serious. Instead of being scolded, he saw
villagers attending and M. Hamel dressed in his special clothes. It was their last French
lesson.

Q3. How did M. Hamel create awareness about the French language?
Ans: He explained how language is key to freedom and that no one should neglect their
mother tongue. He blamed everyone — students, parents, and even himself — for not
valuing it earlier.

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