Introduction:

M Hamel, the schoolmaster in the story "The Last Lesson" by Alphonse Daudet, behaves differently due to a significant event that takes place. The story is set in Alsace, France, during the time when the territory was under German rule. The German government had issued a decree to replace the French language with German in schools. This decree came as a shock to the people, including M Hamel, who had always been passionate about teaching French to his students. The event that unfolds in the story leads to a change in M Hamel's behavior.

The Decree to Replace French with German:

The story begins with the narrator, Franz, waking up late and dreading going to school. He soon discovers that it is the last French lesson that will be taught in their school. The decree to replace French with German had been issued by the German government, and it was a sudden and unexpected announcement. This decree had a profound impact on M Hamel, who had dedicated his life to teaching French and instilling a love for the language in his students.

Realization of Lost Opportunities:

M Hamel's behavior changes as he realizes the gravity of the situation. He understands that he had taken the French language and his role as a teacher for granted. He becomes reflective and regrets not making the most of his time with his students. This realization makes him more serious and emotional during his last lesson, as he wants to impart as much knowledge and love for the French language as possible before it becomes forbidden.

Love for his Native Language:

Throughout the story, it is evident that M Hamel has a deep love for his native language, French. He believes that language is the soul of a nation and losing it would mean losing their identity. This love for his language and his dedication to preserving it make him behave differently during the last lesson. He speaks with a sense of urgency and passion, emphasizing the importance of the language and encouraging his students to cherish it.

Acceptance and Resignation:

As the story progresses, M Hamel's behavior also reflects a sense of acceptance and resignation towards the situation. He knows that he cannot change the decree and the loss of their language is inevitable. Despite this, he remains steadfast in his commitment to teaching until the very end. His behavior becomes more somber and reflective, realizing that he will no longer have the opportunity to teach French to his beloved students.

Conclusion:

M Hamel's behavior in "The Last Lesson" is influenced by the sudden decree to replace French with German. His realization of lost opportunities, love for his native language, and acceptance of the situation shape his behavior during the last lesson. M Hamel's character serves as a reflection of the impact of language and culture on identity and the importance of preserving them.