The Last Lesson
— Alphonse Daudet
About the Author
Alphonse Daudet (1840–1897) was a French novelist and short story writer.
Known for his simple and emotional style of writing about French life and
patriotism.
“The Last Lesson” reflects the pain of losing one’s language and freedom after
the Franco-Prussian War (1870–71).
Setting
The story takes place in a small village in Alsace, France.
Time: During the Franco-Prussian War, when Prussia (Germany) took control
of Alsace and Lorraine.
The story is set on the last day when French is taught in school, as the new
German rulers ordered that only German would be taught from the next day.
Main Characters
1. Franz – A young student who is careless about his studies but realizes the
importance of his language and education at the end.
2. M. Hamel – The French teacher, strict but kind, deeply patriotic, and dedicated
to his duty.
3. Villagers – Elderly people who come to attend the last lesson to show respect
for their language and teacher.
Summary
Franz is late for school and anxious because he has not prepared his French
lesson.
The Last Lesson 1
— Alphonse Daudet
About the Author
Alphonse Daudet (1840–1897) was a French novelist and short story writer.
Known for his simple and emotional style of writing about French life and
patriotism.
“The Last Lesson” reflects the pain of losing one’s language and freedom after
the Franco-Prussian War (1870–71).
Setting
The story takes place in a small village in Alsace, France.
Time: During the Franco-Prussian War, when Prussia (Germany) took control
of Alsace and Lorraine.
The story is set on the last day when French is taught in school, as the new
German rulers ordered that only German would be taught from the next day.
Main Characters
1. Franz – A young student who is careless about his studies but realizes the
importance of his language and education at the end.
2. M. Hamel – The French teacher, strict but kind, deeply patriotic, and dedicated
to his duty.
3. Villagers – Elderly people who come to attend the last lesson to show respect
for their language and teacher.
Summary
Franz is late for school and anxious because he has not prepared his French
lesson.
The Last Lesson 1
