Project Title: Effects of War on Common People

With Reference to “The Last Lesson” by Alphonse Daudet

Index

1. Introduction

2. About the Chapter "The Last Lesson"

3. Historical Background

4. Effects of War on Common People

o a) Psychological Impact

o b) Cultural Loss

o c) Displacement and Fear

o d) Loss of Education

o e) Loss of Identity and Language

5. The Last Lesson: A Reflection of War's Impact

6. Conclusion

Introduction

War has always been a subject of deep concern in human history. While it is often portrayed
through the lens of soldiers, strategies, and victories, the true cost is most painfully borne by
the common people—those who are not directly involved in the conflict but whose lives are
drastically altered by it. This project explores the emotional, social, cultural, and educational
impact of war on ordinary citizens, with a particular focus on the short story “The Last Lesson”
by Alphonse Daudet, part of the Class 12 English syllabus.

About the Chapter: “The Last Lesson”

“The Last Lesson” is set in the Franco-Prussian War (1870-71), during which France lost the
provinces of Alsace and Lorraine to the Germans. The story is narrated by Franz, a young boy
from Alsace, who realizes only on the final day of his French class how much he has taken his
language and culture for granted. His teacher, M. Hamel, announces that it will be their last
French lesson, as German is to be taught in schools going forward.

Through the lens of a single classroom, Daudet paints a powerful picture of how political
decisions and war declarations change the lives of innocent civilians—especially children—
forever.

Historical Background

The Franco-Prussian War led to the German occupation of Alsace and Lorraine. As part of
their policy, the Germans banned the use of the French language in schools. This seemingly
simple act had far-reaching consequences for the local population, deeply impacting their
sense of identity and culture.

4. Effects of War on Common People

1. Loss of Language and Identity

One of the most painful effects of war illustrated in the story is the loss of language, which
directly impacts cultural identity. In “The Last Lesson,” the imposition of German in place of
French is symbolic of the erasure of national identity. Language is not just a medium of
communication; it is the soul of culture, carrying values, stories, and traditions. When Franz
realizes that he will no longer be allowed to learn French, he feels a deep sense of regret and
loss.

2. Psychological Trauma

War leads to emotional and psychological stress for the common people. In the story, the
villagers, including the adults, come to attend the last French lesson—an unusual scene. They
are not there just for the sake of education but to express their sorrow, guilt, and helplessness.
M. Hamel’s calm yet sorrowful demeanor reflects the inner pain of a teacher who has served for
forty years but is forced to leave because of political change. The feeling of powerlessness and
uncertainty is something civilians experience deeply during wartime.

3. Disruption of Education

War affects education systems severely. Schools are either shut down or converted into military
spaces. Teachers are displaced or conscripted, and children like Franz are deprived of their right
to learn freely. In “The Last Lesson,” Franz feels guilty for not valuing his studies earlier. This
sudden end of education due to war shows how children are robbed of their basic rights and
opportunities for growth.
4. Fear and Insecurity

When war breaks out, ordinary life is filled with fear, tension, and unpredictability. People are
constantly worried about their safety, homes, families, and livelihoods. In Alsace, under German
rule, the villagers were afraid of losing not just their jobs but also their freedom to express and
preserve their heritage. The atmosphere in the classroom in “The Last Lesson” is heavy with
silence, sadness, and a sense of finality—capturing the fear of the unknown future.

5. Cultural Suppression

War often leads to the dominance of one culture over another, especially when new rulers try
to impose their language, customs, and beliefs. The Germans, after capturing Alsace and
Lorraine, tried to replace French with German in schools, effectively suppressing French
culture. This kind of cultural dominance is a subtle yet powerful tool used in warfare to break
the spirit of the conquered population.

The Symbolism in “The Last Lesson”

The classroom in Daudet’s story is more than just a place of learning; it becomes a symbol of
resistance, memory, and cultural pride. M. Hamel’s formal dress, the attendance of villagers,
and the emotional tone of the lesson all reflect a collective mourning for what is being lost. M.
Hamel’s words, “When people are enslaved, as long as they hold fast to their language it is as if
they had the key to their prison,” underline the idea that language is a tool of liberation even
under oppression.

Conclusion

“The Last Lesson” serves as a heartfelt reminder of how war impacts the most innocent—
schoolchildren, teachers, villagers—those who have no say in political affairs but pay the highest
price. The story teaches us the importance of preserving culture, language, and education,
even in the face of adversity. Through Franz’s awakening, Alphonse Daudet not only highlights
the personal loss experienced by individuals during war but also issues a universal call to value
peace, learning, and cultural identity.

Bibliography

 NCERT Class 12 English Textbook – Flamingo

 “The Last Lesson” by Alphonse Daudet

 Online articles on effects of war on civilians