Comprehension
My Last French Lesson! Why, I hardly knew how to write! I should never learn any more! I must stop there, then! Oh, how sorry I was for not learning my lessons, for seeking birds' eggs or going sliding on the Saar! My books, that had seemed such a nuisance a while ago, so heavy to carry, my grammar, and my history of the saints, were old friends now that I couldn't give up and M. Hamel, too; the idea that he was going away, that I should never see him again, made me forget all about his ruler and how cranky he was.

Poor man! It was in honour of this last lesson that he had put on his fine Sunday clothes, and now I understood why the old men of the village were sitting there in the back of the room. It was because they were sorry, too, that they had not gone to school more. It was their way of thanking our master for his forty years of faithful service and of showing their respect for the country that was theirs no more.

(The Last Lesson)
Question: 1

What is the tone of the speaker in the expression ‘I hardly knew how to write ...... how sorry I was for not learning my lessons’?

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Regretful tone often expresses sorrow for past mistakes, making one realize the value of lost opportunities.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
  • Confused
  • Regretful
  • Surprised
  • Happy
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

The speaker's tone shows profound regret and remorse for not valuing his lessons. This statement highlights his understanding of the missed chance and his sadness over his neglected studies.
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Question: 2

Choose the correct option: The speaker refers to ‘seeking birds’ egg’ and ‘sliding on the Saar’ as

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Distractions from learning in childhood can lead to later realizations about missed opportunities in education.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
  • Part of his routine
  • His daily routine
  • Source of distraction from learning
  • Fun time with friends
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The Correct Option is C

Solution and Explanation

The speaker's actions, including collecting birds' eggs and playing on the Saar river, represent his lack of focus on his studies. These leisure activities superseded his education, causing later remorse.
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Question: 3

What is reflected through the shift in the speaker’s perception of his books through his expression of calling them his ‘old friends’ rather than considering them as ‘nuisance’?

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The speaker’s change in attitude highlights the transformation from ignorance to appreciation of education.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The speaker's changed perspective reveals his growth and understanding of knowledge's significance. He first saw books as a hindrance, but later recognized their worth, calling them 'old friends' and demonstrating a profound appreciation for learning.
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Question: 4

Select the correct option from those given in brackets to fill in the blank:
“It was because they were sorry too….” They were sorry for __________ (not following the government order / not learning their language).

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Language is a key aspect of cultural heritage, and its loss can result in the erosion of national identity.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

The populace lamented their failure to engage with their ancestral tongue, now disappearing. This belated understanding highlighted the necessity of safeguarding cultural and linguistic heritage.
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Question: 5

What is inferred from the expression ‘the country that was theirs no more’?

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The phrase conveys the deep sorrow and helplessness of people when their homeland is taken over by foreign rule.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

This phrase represents the erosion of national identity and autonomy. It illustrates how Alsace and Lorraine, formerly French territories, were now controlled by Prussia, causing the inhabitants to feel alienated. The feeling underscores the effects of imperialism and cultural control.
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Question: 6

What does M. Hamel’s ruler reflect about his image?

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M. Hamel’s ruler signifies discipline, while his emotions reflect his dedication and patriotism.
Updated On: Jan 14, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

M. Hamel's ruler embodies his rigorous teaching style. Despite his severe demeanor, his feelings on the final day of class demonstrated his deep care for his pupils and his grief regarding the loss of their language. Consequently, the ruler signifies both control and fondness.
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