Question

What led m.hamel to give rise to a thought that the alsacians had plenty to reproach themselves with?

Answer 1

M. Hamel and the villagers were exceedingly regretful for having neglected the learning of the French language.  M Hamel blamed the inhabitants of Alsace and Lorraine for their lackadaisical attitude to learning French. They preferred sending their children to work to earn money to attending French classes. He even blamed himself for not teaching the French language seriously, as he gave holidays to his students when he wanted to enjoy leisure activities such as fishing and gardening.