Why is M. Hamel especially sad at the end of the lesson?

M. Hamel is especially sad at the end of the lesson because he realizes that he is saying goodbye not only to his students but also to his beloved language and culture. As he reflects on the years spent teaching and the dedication he poured into his profession, he is overcome by a sense of loss and helplessness in the face of the changing political landscape. His sadness is compounded by the regret of seeing the villagers’ neglect of their education and the fleeting nature of time, making this farewell all the more poignant and bittersweet. This emotional weight reveals his deep attachment to the French language and the community he has served.