[Pocket Edition] World Literature Classics Library - The Last Lesson

Author: (French) Alphonse Daudet
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-09-01
Features: "The Last Lesson" is a collection of three important works in the life of the 19th-century French realist writer Alphonse Daudet, including the short story collection "Tales of Monday," the prose and short story collection "Letters from a Miller," and the novel "Little Florent and Big Rizler." With exquisite brushwork and ingenious composition, the works showcase the sincerity, integrity, kindness, and resilience of people living in the lower strata of French society, depict the picturesque landscapes of southern France, reflect the deep patriotic sentiments of the French people, and embody the author's ultimate humanistic concern and masterful artistic craftsmanship. Daudet is one of the giants of modern French literature. This piece ("The Last Lesson") is written in the voice of a primary school student in the department of Arches, portraying the tragedy of territorial loss to inspire the patriotic spirit of the French people. This short story is among the finest of its kind.—Hu Shih
He (Daudet) has a calm and natural style that is deeply appreciated. His tone is rich in emotion and charm, subtle yet gentle, unassuming yet captivating. After being exposed to loud, forceful noises, it is like a tranquil oasis that soothes the spirit.—Liu Mingjiu
Daudet's style is that of a master storyteller—light, flexible, and fluid. Sometimes, a gesture or a smile from the narrator is enough to bring the story to life.—Fran?ois (French)