The Last Lesson Class 12 Notes: CBSE English Flamingo Chapter 1

About the Author:

Alphonse Daudet wrote Chapter 1, "The Last Lesson," in Class 12 English Flamingo (Prose), born in 1840, was a famous French writer known for writing stories and novels that vividly depicted everyday life in France during the 1800s. His works focused on exploring human feelings and important social topics with great detail and understanding.

About the Story/ Synopsis of the Story:

"The Last Lesson" is set during the Franco-Prussian War of the 1870s, when France was defeated by Prussia, which included Germany, Poland, and parts of Austria. Prussian forces occupied the cities of Alsace and Lorraine, and the story focuses on M. Hamel's final lesson in a French village school before he leaves. This marks a significant moment as it's his farewell from teaching in France.

The Theme of The Last Lesson:

"The Last Lesson shows how people deeply desire their language and culture when they face war. It explains the sadness and grief of losing one's home, language, and traditions during conflicts. The story also reveals how political situations impact children as Franz grows fond of his native language, culture, and teacher. It reflects how humans often value something more when they are about to lose it than when it's easily accessible."

Character Sketches:

M Hamel - M. Hamel was a strict yet passionate teacher who believed strongly in teaching French to his students. He took pride in his job and courageously defied orders to conduct the final lesson.

Franz - Franz, an active and curious boy, enjoyed exploring different activities but initially wasn't interested in learning French. He should have paid more attention to the political situation and missed important announcements. However, he observed M. Hamel closely, noticing his behaviour and when he dressed formally. Franz became emotional when he realised he wouldn't learn from M. Hamel anymore or study French.

The Last Lesson Class 12 Summary of Chapter 1:

• During the 1870, Franco-Prussian War, Prussia (Germany, Poland, and parts of Austria) conquered the French regions of Alsace and Lorraine. After the conquest, Berlin ordered these districts to cease teaching French in all schools and replace French-speaking teachers with German instructors.

• Franz, as usual, arrives late to class and notices Prussian soldiers drilling nearby. He sees people checking war updates on the bulletin board and senses a somber atmosphere in the school surroundings.

• M. Hamel, the teacher, informs his students that this will be his final French lesson due to new orders from higher authorities. Instead of scolding Franz for his tardiness and lack of preparation, M. Hamel reflects on past occasions when he reprimanded students for similar behavior. He reminisces about how everyone had ample time to learn French properly. He also expresses his admiration for the French language, dressed in his special Sunday suit that he reserves for important occasions.

• Upon entering the classroom, Franz notices that the usually empty last benches are filled with villagers. He realizes they have come to honor M. Hamel for his dedicated forty years of service and to express regret for neglecting French classes and education in general.

• Throughout the day, everyone diligently completes their work and listens attentively to M. Hamel, knowing this will be their last French lesson with him. 

• As the clock strikes twelve and the sounds of Prussian soldiers grow louder, M. Hamel struggles with overwhelming emotions. Tears fill his eyes, and a heaviness grips his heart, preventing him from speaking his farewell. Instead, he picks up the chalk and writes "Vive La France" (Long Live France) on the blackboard with deep sorrow and anger. Finally, he dismisses the class, asking them to leave quietly.

Important Points for Class 12 Chapter 1, The Last Lesson

• Alphonse Daudet (1840-1897) was a French novelist and short-story writer. 

• The Last Lesson is set in the days of the Franco-Prussian War (1870-1871), in which Prussia, led by Bismarck, defeated France. 

• Prussia then consisted of the nations of Germany, Poland and parts of Austria. 

• In this story, the French districts of Alsace and Lorraine have passed into Prussian hands. 

• Read the story to find out how this affected life at school.

Importance of Chapter 1 The Last Lesson Notes

• Revision notes provide a concise summary of the chapter, saving time during revision by highlighting the main points.

• They highlight key themes and concepts, making it easier to understand and remember the importance of the chapter.

• Important quotes and simple explanations are included, helping students understand and remember the material better.

• The notes explain the characters and the story clearly, making it easier for students to understand the chapter fully.

• These notes help quickly review important points before exams, ensuring that students are well-prepared.

• The Last Lesson Notes PDF covers the entire syllabus, ensuring that every topic is included and that the chapter is fully understood.

Tips for Learning the Class 12 English Chapter 1 The Last Lesson Notes

• The story happens in a village during a war, showing how education and language are important even in difficult times.

• Look closely at characters like Franz and Mr. Hamel to see how they feel and act in the story.

• Consider themes like why language matters, how war affects schooling, and the value of cultural traditions.

• Notice how the author uses things like old books to give deeper meanings to the story.

• Learn about the war in the story to see why it's important and how it changes the characters' lives.

• Connect the story's ideas to your life or things happening now to understand it better.

Conclusion

"The Last Lesson" takes place during the Franco-Prussian War in the 1870s, when France lost to Prussia, including Germany, Poland, and parts of Austria. The story focuses on M. Hamel's final lesson at a village school in France, set against the backdrop of Prussian occupation in Alsace and Lorraine. It highlights the significance of education and cultural heritage during challenging times. Vedantu helps students by offering FREE PDFs and educational help. Its easy-to-use website and study materials make learning subjects easier.

Related Study Materials for Class 12 English Chapter 1 The Last Lesson

Chapter-wise Revision Notes for Class 12 English

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