Every politician wants to leave a legacy and Mayor Bartholemy Piechut is no different — erecting a latrine in the village square might be a magnificent idea, but he knows he'll need help swinging opinion his way.

Aided by persuasive allies, Piechut gets his way and a startling new civic amenity is inaugurated, right outside the church and local shops — with mixed reviews from locals.

Old maid about town Justine Putet rallies support for her opposition to the newly installed village latrine.

Young soldier Claudius returns home from army manoeuvres, only to discover he potentially shares the blame with the new urinal for bespoiling Clochemerle treasures. His father surprisingly rates developments a good vintage!

The priest's sermon decrying the urinal in interrupted.

War breaks out on all fronts · village against village - innkeepers wife against shopkeepers wife – pro latrine mayor versus the rest, even the aristocracy get involved!

The fate of Clochemerle and its demolished latrine becomes a pass-the-parcel of responsibilities between church, ministers, and the army. Watch out, unsuspecting residents!

The army arrive in Clochemerle on 'manoeuvres', trouble is soon not far behind when the Captain mounts more than his horse. Piechut plans somehow take a step forward, notwithstanding a now barricaded urinal.

The villagers of Clochemerle face off against the army.