Rattrap

Summary

“The Rattrap” by Selma Lagerlöf is a story that revolves around a poor peddler who roams around selling rattraps. He leads a life of poverty and loneliness, and his view of the world becomes cynical. He believes that the world is nothing but a giant rattrap meant to trap people with its temptations. The story takes a significant turn when the peddler is offered shelter by an old crofter, who shares his hospitality and also shows him the money he has earned by selling cow’s milk. The temptation of money proves too much for the peddler, and he steals the crofter’s money.

As the peddler continues his journey, he gets lost in the forest and begins to feel trapped in his own rattrap. His life takes another turn when he seeks shelter in the ironmaster’s house, who mistakes him for an old acquaintance. The ironmaster’s daughter, Edla, persuades her father to allow the peddler to stay with them for Christmas. Edla’s kindness and compassion towards the peddler make him realize his mistake. The story concludes with the peddler returning the stolen money, along with a letter, thanking Edla for treating him with respect and kindness despite his actions. He leaves behind a small rattrap as a gift, symbolizing his change of heart.

First 10 Questions and Answers

Q1. Why did the peddler consider the world to be a rattrap?

Answer: The peddler considered the world to be a rattrap because he believed that just like a rattrap entices rats with bait, the world entices people with wealth, power, and other materialistic pleasures. Once people get caught in these temptations, they are trapped, just like rats in a rattrap. His cynicism stemmed from his own experiences of poverty and loneliness, leading him to view the world negatively.

Simple Answer: The peddler considered the world to be a rattrap because he believed that just like a rattrap attracts rats with bait, the world tempts people with wealth, power, and other materialistic pleasures. Once people get caught in these temptations, they are trapped, just like rats in a rattrap. This negative feeling grew up in his once-dirty mind because of his own experiences of poverty and loneliness, leading him to view the world negatively.

Q2. What role does Edla play in the story? How does she influence the peddler’s actions?

Answer: Edla, the ironmaster’s daughter, plays a crucial role in the story as the embodiment of kindness and compassion. Unlike others who might have treated the peddler with suspicion or disdain, Edla treats him with respect and warmth, even after learning about his true identity. Her genuine concern and hospitality touch the peddler’s heart, leading him to reevaluate his actions and eventually return the stolen money. Edla’s influence is instrumental in the peddler’s transformation and redemption.

Q3. Discuss the significance of the rattrap in the story. How does it serve as a symbol?

Answer: The rattrap in the story serves as a powerful symbol representing the traps and temptations that life offers. It symbolizes the entrapment of individuals by materialistic desires and the consequences that follow. For the peddler, the rattrap is not just a physical object but a metaphor for the world and the human condition. His realization that he, too, has been caught in the rattrap of greed and temptation leads to his eventual transformation, making the rattrap a central symbol of the story’s moral lesson.

Q4. How does the story “The Rattrap” convey the theme of redemption?

Answer: “The Rattrap” conveys the theme of redemption through the peddler’s journey from a cynical, deceitful man to someone who seeks to correct his wrongdoings. Initially, the peddler is caught in the rattrap of greed and theft, but the kindness shown by Edla gives him the opportunity to redeem himself. Her compassion helps him realize his mistake, and he returns the stolen money, along with a letter of apology. This act of redemption is a testament to the idea that no matter how lost someone might seem, there is always a chance for change and forgiveness.

Q5. What does the letter left by the peddler signify in the story?

Answer: The letter left by the peddler signifies his repentance and the moral awakening he experiences due to Edla’s kindness. In the letter, he acknowledges that Edla’s goodness had allowed him to rise above the temptations that had ensnared him. The letter, along with the returned money and the rattrap, symbolizes the peddler’s transformation and his gratitude for being treated with dignity. It serves as a message that empathy and understanding can lead to redemption, even for those who have lost their way.

Q6. How does the setting of the story contribute to the overall theme?

Answer: The setting of “The Rattrap,” particularly the dark, cold Swedish winter, contributes to the story’s overall theme of isolation and entrapment. The harsh winter landscape mirrors the peddler’s bleak (dark) outlook on life and his sense of entrapment in a world full of temptations. The ironmaster’s house, warm and inviting, contrasts with the cold outside and represents a place of potential redemption. The forest, where the peddler gets lost, symbolizes the confusion and moral dilemmas he faces. The settings thus play a significant role in reinforcing the story’s themes.

Q7. Discuss the irony in the story “The Rattrap.”

Answer: The irony in “The Rattrap” lies in the fact that the peddler, who often spoke of the world as a rattrap, finds himself ensnared in the very trap he warned others about. He steals the crofter’s money, thinking he has outsmarted the world, only to find himself lost in the forest, symbolically caught in the rattrap. Additionally, there is irony in the ironmaster’s initial mistake in identity, where he believes the peddler to be an old comrade, leading to an invitation to his home. The peddler, who could have exploited this mistake further, ultimately chooses to be honest, showcasing the ironic twist in his character development.

Q8. What does the peddler’s transformation reveal about the power of kindness?

Answer: The peddler’s transformation reveals that kindness has the power to bring about profound change in individuals, even in those who seem hardened by life’s difficulties. Edla’s compassion and respect towards the peddler, despite his initial deception, demonstrate that understanding and empathy can inspire people to recognize their own potential for goodness. The peddler’s decision to return the stolen money and acknowledge his wrongdoings underscores the transformative power of kindness and the possibility of redemption, even in the most unlikely of circumstances.

Q9. How does the theme of loneliness manifest in the story?

Answer: Loneliness is a pervasive theme in “The Rattrap,” manifesting through the peddler’s life of isolation and the crofter’s solitary existence. The peddler, who wanders alone, selling rattraps, has no family or friends, and his cynicism about the world is a result of his deep-seated loneliness. Similarly, the crofter, who lives alone after his cow’s death, eagerly welcomes the peddler into his home, craving companionship. The ironmaster’s home, in contrast, represents a place of warmth and family, highlighting the loneliness that the peddler and others experience. This theme underscores the human need for connection and the impact that loneliness can have on one’s worldview.

Q10. Analyze the significance of the title “The Rattrap.”

Answer: The title “The Rattrap” is significant as it encapsulates the central metaphor of the story—the idea that the world is a trap filled with temptations that can ensnare people, leading them into a life of despair and moral corruption. The peddler’s philosophy that the world is a rattrap reflects his belief that everyone, at some point, will fall prey to these temptations. The title also symbolizes the peddler’s own journey, as he falls into the rattrap of greed but ultimately escapes it through the kindness and compassion of others. The rattrap, therefore, is not just a physical object in the story but a metaphor for the challenges and moral choices individuals face in life.

Questions with How I Wrote It notes:

Q11. How does the peddler’s view of the world change by the end of the story?

Answer: By the end of the story, the peddler’s view of the world shifts from cynicism to one of hope and redemption. Initially, he sees the world as a giant rattrap, a place filled with temptations that ensnare people. However, after experiencing Edla’s kindness and compassion, he realizes that there is goodness in the world, and people can escape the metaphorical traps they fall into. This change in perspective is evident when he returns the stolen money and leaves a letter for Edla, showing his gratitude and acknowledging his wrongdoings.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the peddler’s transformation throughout the story, examining how his interactions with Edla led to a change in his worldview. The answer was crafted by highlighting the contrast between his initial and final perspectives, emphasizing the role of kindness in this transformation.

Q12. What is the significance of the stolen money in the story?

Answer: The stolen money symbolizes the moral trap that the peddler falls into and represents the temptation that he initially cannot resist. It serves as a catalyst for the peddler’s journey into the metaphorical rattrap, leading to his subsequent feelings of guilt and entrapment. The return of the money at the end signifies the peddler’s redemption and his desire to rectify his wrongdoings. It also highlights the theme of integrity and the possibility of moral recovery.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I identified the stolen money as a key symbol in the story and connected it to the themes of temptation, guilt, and redemption. The answer was structured to show how the money’s significance evolves from being a source of moral downfall to a symbol of the peddler’s repentance.

Q13. Why does the ironmaster initially mistake the peddler for an old acquaintance?

Answer: The ironmaster initially mistakes the peddler for an old acquaintance because the peddler’s unkempt appearance in the dim light of the forge reminded him of an old regimental comrade. The ironmaster’s eagerness to reconnect with his past likely clouded his judgment, leading him to see what he wanted to see rather than questioning the peddler’s true identity. This case of mistaken identity serves as a plot device to bring the peddler into the ironmaster’s home, setting the stage for his eventual transformation.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I analyzed the context of the ironmaster’s mistake, considering the influence of the dim lighting and his desire to reconnect with an old friend. The answer was crafted to explain how this mistake advances the plot and contributes to the peddler’s character development.

Q14. How does the story explore the theme of human dignity?

Answer: The story explores the theme of human dignity through the contrast in how the peddler is treated by different characters. Initially, he is treated with suspicion and disdain by most people, reflecting his lowly status as a peddler. However, Edla’s respectful and compassionate treatment of him, even after discovering his true identity, restores his sense of dignity. Her actions demonstrate that everyone deserves to be treated with respect, regardless of their social standing or past mistakes. This theme is central to the peddler’s eventual redemption.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on how the peddler’s interactions with others reflect varying degrees of respect and dignity. The answer was framed to highlight the importance of Edla’s actions in restoring the peddler’s self-worth and illustrating the broader theme of human dignity.

Q15. What does the character of the crofter represent in the story?

Answer: The crofter represents the vulnerability and loneliness of those who live on the margins of society. His eagerness to share his hospitality with the peddler, despite being a stranger, reflects his need for companionship and trust. The crofter’s trust is betrayed when the peddler steals his money, highlighting the theme of betrayal and the consequences of misplaced trust. The crofter’s character serves as a foil to Edla, whose trust and kindness ultimately lead to the peddler’s redemption.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I analyzed the crofter’s role in the story as both a victim and a symbol of loneliness and vulnerability. The answer was crafted by comparing his character to Edla, emphasizing how their differing interactions with the peddler highlight the story’s moral themes.

Q16. How does Selma Lagerlöf use imagery to enhance the story’s themes?

Answer: Selma Lagerlöf uses imagery, particularly the harsh winter landscape, to enhance the story’s themes of isolation, entrapment, and redemption. The cold, desolate environment mirrors the peddler’s bleak outlook on life and his sense of being trapped in a world full of temptations. The imagery of the ironmaster’s warm home provides a stark contrast, symbolizing the possibility of redemption and the warmth of human kindness. Lagerlöf’s use of vivid descriptions helps to create an atmosphere that reinforces the story’s moral lessons.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the role of imagery in reinforcing the story’s central themes, particularly the contrast between the cold outside and the warmth inside. The answer was crafted to show how Lagerlöf’s descriptive language contributes to the mood and deeper meanings of the story.

Q17. Discuss the role of irony in the peddler’s character development.

Answer: Irony plays a significant role in the peddler’s character development, particularly in how he views the world as a rattrap, only to find himself ensnared by the very temptations he warns against. His initial theft of the crofter’s money seems to confirm his cynical worldview, yet it ironically leads him into a situation where he becomes the victim of his own philosophy. This irony is resolved by the end of the story when the peddler chooses to return the money, indicating that he has broken free from the metaphorical rattrap. His transformation is thus deeply tied to the ironic twists in his journey.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the ironic elements of the peddler’s journey, particularly how his initial philosophy comes back to haunt him. The answer was crafted to highlight how these ironic twists contribute to his growth and eventual redemption.

Q18. How does the story reflect the idea of second chances?

Answer: The story reflects the idea of second chances through the peddler’s redemption arc. Despite his initial wrongdoing of stealing the crofter’s money, he is given a second chance when Edla treats him with kindness and respect. Her actions make him reconsider his choices and ultimately lead him to return the stolen money and seek forgiveness. The story suggests that everyone deserves a second chance to make amends for their mistakes, and that such opportunities can lead to personal growth and transformation.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I analyzed the peddler’s redemption as a key example of second chances in the story. The answer was crafted to emphasize how the peddler’s change of heart is made possible by the compassion he receives, illustrating the broader theme of forgiveness and redemption.

Q19. What does the peddler’s letter to Edla reveal about his character?

Answer: The peddler’s letter to Edla reveals his deep sense of gratitude and his recognition of the kindness that has been shown to him. It shows that he is capable of introspection and remorse, acknowledging his wrongdoings and the positive impact Edla’s compassion has had on him. The letter is a testament to his transformation, as it reflects his desire to make amends and his newfound understanding of human goodness. It also highlights the peddler’s humility, as he admits his mistakes and seeks to correct them.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the content and tone of the peddler’s letter as a reflection of his character development. The answer was crafted to show how the letter serves as a key moment in the story, revealing the peddler’s inner change and his recognition of the importance of kindness.

Q20. How does the story depict the consequences of greed?

Answer: The story depicts the consequences of greed through the peddler’s experience after stealing the crofter’s money. His act of greed leads him into a situation where he becomes lost in the forest, feeling trapped and guilty. This serves as a metaphor for the larger idea that greed entraps individuals, leading to a loss of freedom and peace of mind. The peddler’s eventual decision to return the money reflects his realization of the destructive nature of greed and his desire to break free from its hold.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I examined how the peddler’s act of theft sets off a chain of events that illustrate the consequences of greed. The answer was crafted to connect the peddler’s personal experience with the broader moral lesson about the dangers of succumbing to greed.

Q21. What role does the concept of trust play in the story?

Answer: Trust plays a crucial role in the story, both in how it is given and how it is betrayed. The crofter’s trust in the peddler is betrayed when the peddler steals his money, highlighting the vulnerability that comes with trusting others. However, the story also shows that trust can lead to positive outcomes, as seen in Edla’s trust in the peddler, which ultimately inspires him to return the stolen money and seek redemption. The concept of trust is thus central to the story’s exploration of human relationships and morality.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the different instances of trust in the story and how they impact the characters’ actions and relationships. The answer was crafted to show how trust, when honored, can lead to personal growth, and when betrayed, can result in guilt and a desire for redemption.

Q22. How does the setting of the story contribute to its overall theme?

Answer: The setting of the story, particularly the cold and desolate Swedish landscape, contributes to the overall theme of isolation and entrapment. The harsh winter environment mirrors the peddler’s bleak outlook on life and his sense of being trapped in a world full of temptations. The contrast between the cold outside and the warmth inside the ironmaster’s home symbolizes the potential for redemption through human kindness. The setting serves as a backdrop that reinforces the story’s exploration of moral and emotional themes.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I analyzed the role of the setting in creating the mood and atmosphere of the story. The answer was crafted to connect the physical environment to the story’s thematic elements, showing how the setting enhances the overall narrative.

Q23. Discuss the importance of the title ‘The Rattrap’ in relation to the story’s message.

Answer: The title ‘The Rattrap’ is significant as it encapsulates the story’s central metaphor and message. The peddler views the world as a giant rattrap, filled with temptations that lure people into trouble. This metaphor reflects his cynical outlook on life and his belief that everyone is susceptible to falling into the traps set by greed, dishonesty, and other vices. The title also hints at the possibility of escape from these traps, as demonstrated by the peddler’s eventual redemption. The title thus serves as a concise summary of the story’s moral lessons.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the metaphorical significance of the title and how it relates to the peddler’s worldview and the story’s themes. The answer was crafted to explain how the title reflects the central message of the story, tying it to the peddler’s journey and transformation.

Q24. What role does compassion play in the peddler’s transformation?

Answer: Compassion plays a pivotal role in the peddler’s transformation, particularly through Edla’s treatment of him. Despite discovering his true identity as a thief, Edla chooses to show him kindness and respect, treating him as a guest rather than a criminal. This compassionate approach leads the peddler to reconsider his actions and ultimately return the stolen money. Her compassion serves as a catalyst for his redemption, illustrating the transformative power of empathy and kindness in changing a person’s life.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I centered the answer on the theme of compassion, particularly Edla’s role in the peddler’s transformation. The answer was crafted to highlight how her actions serve as the turning point in the story, demonstrating the impact of compassion on the peddler’s moral journey.

Q25. How does the peddler’s interaction with the ironmaster differ from his interaction with Edla?

Answer: The peddler’s interaction with the ironmaster is marked by suspicion and deception, as he initially pretends to be an old acquaintance to take advantage of the situation. The ironmaster, once he discovers the truth, reacts with anger and threatens to call the sheriff. In contrast, the peddler’s interaction with Edla is based on honesty and compassion. She treats him with respect, even after learning his true identity, which ultimately leads to his transformation. The differing interactions highlight the contrasting approaches to dealing with others—one based on authority and the other on empathy.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I compared and contrasted the peddler’s interactions with the ironmaster and Edla, focusing on how these relationships reflect different approaches to human connection. The answer was crafted to show how Edla’s compassionate treatment leads to a positive outcome, while the ironmaster’s authoritative stance initially creates tension.

Q26. What is the significance of the peddler’s decision to return the stolen money?

Answer: The peddler’s decision to return the stolen money is significant as it marks his moral redemption and the turning point in his character arc. This action signifies his recognition of the wrongness of his past behavior and his desire to make amends. It also reflects the impact of Edla’s kindness, which inspires him to change his ways. The return of the money symbolizes the breaking of the metaphorical rattrap that had ensnared him, allowing him to regain his sense of integrity and self-worth.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the peddler’s decision as a key moment in the story that signifies his redemption. The answer was crafted to emphasize how this act of returning the money serves as a symbolic gesture of his transformation and the influence of compassion on his moral recovery.

Q27. How does the story portray the concept of forgiveness?

Answer: The story portrays the concept of forgiveness through Edla’s acceptance of the peddler despite his past wrongdoings. Her willingness to forgive him, even after learning that he is a thief, demonstrates the power of unconditional kindness. This act of forgiveness not only leads to the peddler’s redemption but also reflects the story’s broader message that people are capable of change and deserve second chances. Forgiveness is depicted as a transformative force that can restore dignity and self-respect.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I analyzed how forgiveness is portrayed in the story, particularly through Edla’s actions. The answer was crafted to show how her willingness to forgive the peddler leads to his redemption, highlighting the story’s theme of transformation through compassion and understanding.

Q28. How does the story use the metaphor of the rattrap to convey its themes?

Answer: The story uses the metaphor of the rattrap to convey themes of temptation, entrapment, and redemption. The peddler’s view of the world as a giant rattrap reflects his belief that life is filled with traps set by material desires and vices. This metaphor is reinforced by his own experience of being trapped by his greed after stealing the crofter’s money. However, the story also suggests that it is possible to escape these traps through kindness, compassion, and moral integrity, as demonstrated by the peddler’s eventual redemption. The rattrap metaphor thus serves as a powerful symbol of the human condition.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the rattrap metaphor as a central symbol in the story, analyzing how it relates to the peddler’s worldview and the broader themes of the narrative. The answer was crafted to explain how the metaphor encapsulates the story’s moral lessons and the peddler’s journey.

Q29. What message does the story convey about the nature of temptation?

Answer: The story conveys the message that temptation is a powerful force that can lead individuals into moral traps, but it is also possible to resist and overcome it. The peddler’s initial fall into temptation, when he steals the crofter’s money, leads to his sense of entrapment and guilt. However, through the kindness and compassion shown by Edla, he finds the strength to return the money and redeem himself. The story suggests that while temptation is an inevitable part of life, the choices one makes in response to it determine one’s character and moral integrity.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I analyzed the theme of temptation as it is portrayed in the story, particularly through the peddler’s actions and their consequences. The answer was crafted to highlight how the story’s message emphasizes the possibility of resisting temptation and achieving redemption.

Q30. How does the story explore the relationship between wealth and morality?

Answer: The story explores the relationship between wealth and morality by illustrating how the pursuit of wealth can lead to moral compromise, but also how moral integrity can prevail over material temptations. The peddler’s theft of the crofter’s money represents the corrupting influence of greed, while his decision to return the money signifies a rejection of wealth in favor of moral redemption. The contrast between the crofter’s simple, honest life and the ironmaster’s wealth further highlights the idea that true value lies not in material possessions but in one’s character and actions.

• How I Drafted This Answer: I focused on the interplay between wealth and morality in the story, examining how the characters’ attitudes toward money influence their actions. The answer was crafted to show how the story critiques the pursuit of wealth at the expense of moral integrity, while also emphasizing the possibility of redemption.

Multiple Choice Questions

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