Question

Describe the changes Franz noticed in the classroom on the last day of school.

Hint:

When describing changes in a story, compare the usual situation with the unusual one. This contrast helps clearly explain the significance of the event.

Answer 1

Concept: In the chapter "The Last Lesson" by Alphonse Daudet, the change in the classroom atmosphere highlights the emotional impact of losing one's language and freedom. The unusual silence and seriousness symbolize the importance of the last French lesson.
Explanation: On reaching the classroom, Franz noticed several unusual changes that surprised him.
First, the classroom was very quiet. Usually, there would be a great bustle before the lesson began, with students repeating their lessons loudly and the teacher’s ruler tapping on the desk. But that day, everything was silent, as if it were a Sunday morning.
Second, the village elders were sitting on the back benches of the classroom. Among them were old Hauser, the former mayor, the former postmaster, and several other villagers. They had come to attend the last French lesson as a mark of respect and regret for not learning their language seriously earlier.
Third, M. Hamel was dressed in his special green coat, frilled shirt, and a little black silk cap — clothes he usually wore only on inspection or prize days. This showed that the day was special and important.
All these changes made Franz realize that something serious and significant was happening — it was the last lesson in French, as the order had come from Berlin that only German would be taught in the schools of Alsace and Lorraine.