Unit: 2
The Last Lesson
The theme of the unit no. 2,
“The Last Lesson," by Alphonse Daudet, centers on the significances of
language as an icon of identity, culture, and national pride. The unit "The Last
Lesson” explains how society often continues with their language, education, and
rights given until they are faced with the threat of failing them. When the
French language was ordered to be regained by German in Alsace, the villagers
and students realized the wide value of their mother tongue. M. Hamel’s final
lesson develops a moving compliment to the French language and a moment of
collective regret for neglecting it. Through Franz’s eyes, we view how language
binds people to their past and heritage. The lesson inspires us to get and save
our artistic roots before they are taken away.