The Rattrap – Selma Lagerlof
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Selma Ottilia Lovisa Lagerlöf was a Swedish author and teacher who lived from 1858 to 1940. At the age of 33, she published her first novel, Gösta Berling’s Saga. In 1909, she became the first woman to be awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature.
Main Points of the lesson
- The peddler was a vagabond who sold rattraps to a little thievery on the side to make both ends meet. He had no worldly possession to call his own, not even a name. He was amused to think of the world as a rattrap.
- He takes shelter in a crofter’s cottage. The crofter welcomed him, gave him dinner, shared his pipe, played “mjolis” with him, also confided in him about his income, and showed him where to put it.
- Next morning, the Peddler steals the money and takes the back roads to keep people away and gets lost in the jungle at night. As he wanders through the forest, he realises that he was caught in the rattrap, too, and that the money was the bait.
- At last he arrives at the Ramsjo ironworks, where he takes shelter for the night. The blacksmith and his assistant ignore him, but the master wrongs him to be an old acquaintance and invites him home. Although the Peddler did not correct the ironmaster, hoping to get some money out of him, he refused to accept his invitation.
- The ironmaster then sends his daughter away, who persuades him to go home with her. She notices his naughty appearance and thinks that either he stole something or he escaped from prison.
- The Peddler is scrubbed, bathed, and given a haircut, shave, and a suit of the ironmaster’s old clothing. The ironmaster knows he is wrong and that he is not the Captain in the morning sun. He wants to contact the Sheriff’s Office. The peddler becomes agitated and declares that the planet is a rattrap and that he, too, will be trapped in it. The ironmaster is amused, but he dismisses him. Edla, who is caring, persuades her father to spend Christmas Day with him.
- The Peddler spends all of Christmas Eve eating and sleeping. The next day at the church, Edla and her father came to know that the Peddler was a thief who stole thirty kroners from the poor crofter.
- They returned home to find a letter addressed to Edla from Captain Von Stahl, as well as a rattrap as a gift from the crofter. The crofter’s three ten kroner notes were found in the rattrap.
SETTING
This storey is set in Sweden’s iron ore mines, which play an important role in the country’s history. The plot is told in the form of a fairy tale.
CHARACTERS
1. A peddler with rattraps.
2. An Old man: A crofter
3. Master Smith in the Ramsjo Iron Mill in Sweden
4. Helpers in the Mill: blacksmiths
5. Iron mill owner
6. Edla Williamson – daughter of the Iron Mill owner.
SUMMARY OF THE RATRAP
Small rattraps were being sold by a rattrap peddler. He was wrapped in rags. He had hollow cheeks. He had the appearance of a hungry man. He made wire traps. He scrounges supplies from stores and large farms. To make ends meet, he had to resort to begging and a little stealing. He had never had it easy in this country. He didn’t have a home or a place to stay.
The peddler led a solitary life. One day, while he was thinking of his rattraps, he was struck by an idea. The world itself, he thought, was a rattrap. As soon as anyone touched it, they were closed to the trap. He was amused to think of some people who had already been trapped, and others who were trying to reach the bait in the trap. It was the cold night of December. On the roadside, he reached a cottage. He knocked at the door and asked for shelter in the night. The owner was a lonely old crofter. He wanted someone to talk to about it. He had welcomed the peddler. He gave the peddler hot porridge to eat, the tobacco to smoke. Then the cards were played. The crofter had a reputation for being both generous and trustworthy. He told the peddler he had a cow and was selling her milk to a creamery. He also informed him that the previous month’s payment was thirty kronors. Then he pulled out a pouch and handed it to him, revealing the cash. He then stuffed the money into the pouch and hung it on a window frame nail.
The peddler left the next day. The crofter shut the door to his house and left. Returning to the cottage, the peddler He’d considered stealing the money from the window frame, which hung like bait. The money was stolen after he broke the window. He now assumed that walking along the highway was risky. As a result, he went for a walk in the woods. He walked and walked but was unable to get out. He moved in circles. He was tired. He looked upon the forest as a rattrap in which he was caught. He thought his end was near. He lay down to die.
He eventually heard the regular thumping of hammer strokes. Ramsjo Ironworks was the cause of the noise, he realised. He got up and started walking in the direction of the noise. He entered the forge after opening the ironworks’ doors. On his regular rounds, the owner came across the ragged wretch near the furnace. The ironmaster fixed his eyes on the peddler’s features. He was certain that the peddler was one of his old regimental comrades, Captain von Stable, who had fallen victim to the forces of darkness. He invited the peddler to spend Christmas with him at his place. The peddler, on the other hand, was alarmed. Accepting the bid, he realised, would be a risky step. He respectfully declined. The ironmaster retired to his home. Edla, the ironmaster’s daughter, was dispatched to convince the peddler to return home. She spoke to him softly. The peddler trusted her and decided to accompany her. On the way, he expressed regret for stealing the crofter’s money, which had put him in a bind.
The ironmaster was overjoyed to have an old regimental friend living with him. He intended to feed him well and provide him with decent jobs. The peddler’s hair was cut, he was washed, and he was bathed by the servant. One of the ironmaster’s fine suits was worn by the peddler. However, when the ironmaster saw him in the daylight, he knew he had made a mistake. Captain von Stable was not the peddler. He believed he had been duped by the man. He considered handing him over to the sheriff as well. The peddler said he had not wanted to be someone he wasn’t. He had refused to visit the ironmaster’s residence. He was able to put on his rags and quit even back then. He also cautioned the ironmaster that the world was a rattrap and that he, too, could be enticed by large bait and fall into the pit. He was ordered to leave immediately by the ironmaster. Edla was annoyed by her father’s insistence that the hapless peddler leave. She felt it was wrong to refuse the man who had been invited. On Christmas Eve, she desired the privilege of hosting a homeless wanderer. She stopped the peddler and her father agreed to it.
The peddler was served by Edla. Christmas gifts were offered to him, which he gratefully accepted. The peddler’s suit, according to Edla, was also a Christmas gift from her father. If he wanted to spend the next Christmas Eve with them, she told him that he would be welcome. The ironmaster went to church with his daughter the next morning. The peddler was a cheat, they discovered there. The crofter had been robbed by him. The ironmaster was convinced the peddler had stolen their silver. Edla’s mood had fallen. When they got home, however, they found the peddler had gone. However, he had left nothing behind. He had, however, left Edla a Christmas gift.
Edla took out the present and opened it. It was a very small rattrap. Edla was relieved to see that the peddler had abandoned the crofter’s income. There was also a letter. Edla was the recipient of the message. He shared his appreciation for her thoughtfulness. He wished to repay her generosity. As a result, he had left the crofter’s money with her and asked her to return it to him. He revealed that he had been promoted to captain. That was why he was able to free himself from the rattrap he had been trapped in. He signed the letter Captain von Stahle.
THEME
The main theme of this story is that most human beings are prone to fall into the trap of material benefit. But every human being has inherent goodness that can be awakened through understanding and love. A human being tends to redeem himself from the wrongdoings.
• Human Kindness
“The Rattrap” is a short, almost fairy-tale centred around the transforming power of human kindness. An unnamed rattrap peddler goes from seeing the world as “one big rattrap” and stealing his stolen money and proclaiming himself free—all as a result of Edla Williamson’s experience of true kindness and generosity on Christmas Eve. By showing the potential of the peddler for positive change, the Swedish writer Selma Lagerlöf expresses the belief that there is a core of goodness in all people and that this goodness can be unlocked by compassion and kindness.
• Trust vs. Cynicism
The story starts with the homeless peddler characterised by his “rattrap” philosophy of life, which states that the world is nothing more than a big rattrap that offers “bait” in the form of luxuries and pleasures, then ensnares and destroys anyone who reaches for this bait. This is a cynical worldview, which the storey eventually debunks by explaining its shortcomings and suggesting an alternative philosophy. Despite the fact that life can be harsh and cruel at times, Selma Lagerlöf claims that being fully cynical leads to loneliness, immorality, and unhappiness. Instead, the storey promotes a more trusting worldview, one that considers human kindness and can foster community among people.
• Loneliness and Companionship
Connected to the themes of kindness and trust, the story also explores the basic human need for companionship and community, and shows the negative effects of loneliness, whether due to poverty, cynicism or unkindness. At the beginning of the storey, the peddler leads an incredibly lonely existence, and this affects him in extremely negative ways, causing him unhappiness and bitterness, and driving him to steal and lie to others. However, through the transformational interactions of the peddler with the old man, the ironmaster, and Edla Williamson, the storey shows the importance of human companionship and suggests that society should bring people together rather than isolate them.
Justification of Title
Since it is about a rattrap peddler, the title “The Rattrap” is fitting. To emphasise the human situation, the author has used the metaphor of a Rattrap. Most people fall into the pit of material benefits in the same way as a rat is tricked by bait and is stuck. The plot centres on a man who becomes imprisoned as a result of his avarice. Therefore, the title is apt.
Message
The story viz. ‘The Rattrap’ conveys the universal message that love, reverence, kindness, and empathy could awaken a person’s inherent goodness. It emphasises humanity’s plight. Material gains are the most common traps that most people fall into. Humans, like the peddler at the end of the storey, have a propensity to redeem themselves from dishonesty.
QUESTIONS & ANSWERS
1. In what sense was the world a big rattrap according to the peddler?
OR
Why did the peddler think that the world was a rattrap?
ANSWER: – The peddler was a very poor man who made a living by selling rattraps that he made himself from the materials he had obtained by begging. His mind, therefore, was always concerned with rattraps. He suddenly thought one day that the whole world was a big rattrap. He felt that the shelter, the food, the clothing, the richness and the joys that the world provided were all the baits set to entrap man just as a rattrap offered cheese or meat to entrap rats. As soon as one of them was trapped, everything came to an end.
2. Why did the peddler derive pleasure from his idea of the world as a rattrap?
ANSWER: – The world was never kind to the poor peddler. He was greeted with sour faces wherever he went and turned or chased away. He thus derived pleasure from the ill-thinking of the world in this way. Besides, he may have envied those whose lot was better than his, and he was rather amused to think that someday they too would be tempted by the bait and caught in the Rattrap.
3. Why did the peddler knock on the cottage by the roadside? How was he treated by the Owner Of the cottage?
ANSWER: – The peddler knocked on the cottage on the side of the road to seek shelter for the night. The owner of the cottage was a crofter who lived alone. He considered the peddler to be a welcome company and treated him very hospitably. Not only did he put him up for the night, but he also offered him food and played cards with him.
4. Why did Edla plead with her father not to send the vagabond away?
OR
Why did Edla still entertain the peddler even after she knew the truth about him?
ANSWER: – Edla had always thought that the peddler was a poor, homeless tramp. Therefore, when his true identity was revealed, she didn’t feel cheated. Instead, she felt very bad about him and his miserable condition, and pleaded in his name. She and her father had promised him Christmas cheer, and she felt it was wrong to send him away.
5. What conclusion did the ironmaster reach when he heard that the crofter had been robbed by the peddler?
ANSWER: – The ironmaster and his daughter were at the church when they learned that the crofter had been robbed by a peddler, who, no doubt, was the one they had sheltered at the manor house. The ironmaster at once concluded that, in their absence, the peddler would probably have stolen all his silverware and run away.
6.What made the peddler think that he had indeed fallen into a rattrap?
Ans: The peddler realised he couldn’t walk down the street with stolen money in his pocket. He went for a walk in the woods. He didn’t make it to the end of the woods because he kept going. Then he realised he had gotten himself caught in the rattrap. He had been duped by a bait and had fallen victim to it.
7. What made the peddler accept Edla Williamson’s invitation?
Ans: Miss Edla Williamson gave the peddler a sympathetic glance. She realised the man was frightened. She told him that he would be free to leave as he had entered. She asked him to spend Christmas Eve with them. Her warm demeanour inspired the peddler to trust her and accept her invitation.
8. The story has many instances of unexpected reactions from the characters to others’ behaviour. Pick out instances of these surprises.
Ans: The peddler is taken aback by the crofter’s warm welcome, generous supper, cheerful company, and intimate confidences. Captain von Stahle is how the ironmaster addresses the peddler. When the ironmaster addresses him as “Nils Olof,” he is taken aback. The ironmaster believes that his refusal was due to humiliation caused by his dreadful attire. The ironmaster laughs at the peddler’s analogy of the universe to a rattrap and abandons his attempt to summon the sheriff. When Edla tells him the suit is a Christmas gift, the peddler is absolutely taken aback. She also invites him to join them for next Christmas. She does all of this even though she realises he is not who he claims to be. In exchange for his hospitality, the crofter’s guest, the rattrap peddler, robs him.
9. How does the metaphor of the rattrap serve to highlight the human predicament?
Ans: The world tempts a person with numerous good things in life, such as wealth and happiness, shelter and food, warmth and clothes. These looked just like the rattrap baits. Once an individual has been enticed by the bait, the world has closed in on him. The crofter’s thirty kronor enticed the peddler. It causes him to withdraw. He takes a stroll through the woods. He is apprehensive about visiting the Manor House. Only after returning the bait (money) does he find harmony.
Important Questions Answered
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UNANSWERED QUESTIONS
Question 1.
How does the metaphor of the rattrap serve to highlight the human predicament?
The metaphor of the rattrap in Passage_1 vividly illustrates the human predicament by comparing the traps set by the world to the enticements of a rattrap. Just as a rattrap baits unsuspecting rodents with promises of food and safety, the world entices humans with luxuries, comforts, and material possessions. The peddler in the story falls into the trap of greed and temptation when he steals money and finds himself ensnared in a metaphorical forest, symbolizing the entanglements and consequences of his actions. This serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of succumbing to worldly temptations and the inevitable repercussions that follow, portraying a bleak portrayal of the human struggle with desire and morality.
Question 2.
What made the peddler finally change his ways?
The peddler’s transformation was brought about by Edla Willimansson’s acts of kindness and compassion. Her generosity and understanding had a profound impact on him, leading to a change of heart. He symbolically gifted her a rattrap and returned the money he had stolen, showing remorse for his past actions. The peddler’s gratitude towards Edla for treating him with dignity and respect, like a true captain, underscored the positive influence of her kindness in reforming his character and motivations.
Question 3.
What are the instances in the story that show that the character of the ironmaster is different from that of his daughter in many ways?
In the story, the character of the ironmaster showcases a sense of pride and suspicion when he encounters the peddler, leading to him labeling the peddler dishonest and calling for potential legal action. Additionally, he demonstrates a concern for material possessions, such as his silver spoons. In contrast, his daughter is depicted as a kind and compassionate individual who extends help and respect to the peddler, ultimately playing a role in positively influencing the peddler’s behavior. These instances highlight the stark differences between the ironmaster’s prideful and guarded nature and his daughter’s empathetic and generous personality.
Question 4.
How does the peddler interpret the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster, and his daughter?
The peddler views the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster, and his daughter in a complex manner. Initially, the crofter invites the peddler into his home and shares his food and tobacco with him. Despite the crofter’s benevolent actions, the peddler betrays his trust by stealing from him. When mistaken for Captain Von Stahle by the ironmaster, the peddler sees an opportunity to gain some material benefit by accepting the invitation to his house. Even though he knows he is deceiving the ironmaster, the peddler chooses to remain silent, hoping to receive some money out of pity. The ironmaster’s daughter, Elda, shows genuine kindness and friendliness towards the peddler, inviting him to stay despite realizing his true identity. The peddler is touched by Elda’s compassion and undergoes a change of heart, expressing his gratitude by gifting her a rattrap and asking her to return the stolen money to the crofter. Overall, the peddler interprets these acts of kindness and hospitality as opportunities for personal gain at first, but ultimately, he is moved by Elda’s genuine caring nature and is compelled to make amends for his past wrongdoings.
Question 5.
What did the ironmaster discover about the peddler’s identity and actions after attending church?
After attending church, the ironmaster in Passage_1 inquired about the stranger who had arrived. The valet informed him that the man had left but had left behind a package for Miss Willmansson as a Christmas gift. Upon inspecting the poorly wrapped package, Miss Willmansson found a small rattrap containing three wrinkled ten kronor notes. Additionally, within the rattrap was a letter written in large, jagged characters.
Question 6.
What was the peddler’s reaction to the daughter’s gesture and the events that unfolded the next morning?
The peddler was left speechless and astonished by the young girl’s gesture. The next morning, he was still asleep when the ironmaster and his daughter got up to attend the early Christmas service, showing no signs of being disturbed by the events that had unfolded the previous day.
Question 7.
What Christmas gift did the ironmaster’s daughter give to the peddler, and what invitation did she extend to him for the next Christmas Eve?
The ironmaster’s daughter generously gifted the peddler with a suit, which she declared was intended as a Christmas present, emphasizing that he did not have to return it. In addition to the suit, she presented him with a small rattrap containing three ten kronor notes and a letter written in large, jagged characters. She extended an invitation for the peddler to spend the next Christmas Eve at their place, assuring him that he would be welcomed back warmly and that he could rest in peace without fearing any harm.
Question 8.
How did the family treat the peddler during the evening of Christmas Eve?
During the evening of Christmas Eve, the family treated the peddler with kindness and consideration. They woke him up multiple times throughout the night, first when the Christmas tree was lit, and later when he was required to join them in the drawing room and dining room for their holiday celebrations. Despite appearing momentarily startled by the candlelight, the peddler was included in their festivities, as he was served Christmas fish and porridge alongside the family members. This indicates that the family made an effort to include the peddler in their Christmas traditions, showing a sense of hospitality and generosity towards him.
Question 9.
What happened during the Christmas Eve at Ramsjo with the peddler, and how did he behave?
During Christmas Eve at Ramsjo, the peddler behaved in a calm and unobtrusive manner. He spent most of the day sleeping peacefully, indicating that he had not experienced such undisturbed rest for a long time. When he was awakened for meals, he participated without issue, showing gratitude and politeness to the hosts. Despite being somewhat disoriented by the candlelight during the festive evening, he remained polite and courteous. The peddler also displayed gratitude and bid good night to everyone before being gifted a suit and invited to return for the next Christmas Eve. Through his behavior, the peddler appeared appreciative and respectful towards his hosts at Ramsjo.
Question 10.
How did the ironmaster respond to his daughter’s actions and the peddler’s presence at the table?
The ironmaster responded to his daughter’s actions by acknowledging her efforts and eventually acceding to her wish. He observed as the young girl approached the peddler, took him by the hand, and led him up to the table. It was evident to him that his daughter’s compassion towards the stranger had moved him, as he could see her father relenting to her request. This response showed the ironmaster’s understanding and acceptance of his daughter’s kind gesture towards the peddler.
Question 11.
How did the daughter explain the difficulties faced by the peddler and why she wanted him to stay for Christmas?
The daughter expressed her sympathy for the struggles faced by the peddler, highlighting how he constantly walks without a place to truly call home, facing rejection and fear of arrest wherever he goes. She articulated her desire for him to experience a day of peace at their home, emphasizing the importance of offering him a welcoming and safe environment where he can find respite from his hardships. She emphasized that it was a mistake to have initially chased him away and stressed the moral obligation to honor their promise of Christmas cheer, advocating for the acceptance and inclusion of a fellow human being in need.
Question 12.
Why did the ironmaster’s daughter intercede for the peddler despite her father’s objections?
The ironmaster’s daughter intervened on behalf of the peddler despite her father’s protests because she felt a deep sense of compassion towards him. She recognized the plight of the peddler, who faced constant rejection and lack of belonging in society. Her empathy drove her to want to offer him a moment of respite and joy on Christmas, even if it meant going against her father’s wishes. She believed that it was unjust to turn away someone who had been welcomed into their home, especially when they had extended the hand of hospitality and promise of holiday cheer.
Question 13.
What was the ironmaster’s reaction to the peddler’s presence and the daughter’s decision to keep him on Christmas Eve?
The ironmaster initially found amusement in the peddler’s presence and was ready to dismiss him on Christmas Eve, as urged by the sheriff. However, his reaction shifted when his daughter intervened, expressing her desire for the peddler to stay and enjoy the day with them. Despite being taken aback by his daughter’s request, the ironmaster ultimately relented and allowed the peddler to join them, hesitant but unable to refuse his daughter’s compassionate and persuasive appeal. The daughter’s empathy and plea for kindness toward the wandering stranger resonated with the ironmaster, who, although skeptical, yielded to her compassionate perspective and allowed the peddler to stay for Christmas cheer.
Question 14.
Why did the peddler feel that the luxurious treatment had come to an end?
The peddler sensed that the indulgent treatment was coming to a close due to a mix-up where he had mistaken a stranger for his old friend. When the stranger failed to recognize him and was confronted, the peddler knew that the truth would soon be revealed. Anticipating the consequences of his misidentification, the peddler was resigned to the fact that he could no longer enjoy the luxuries bestowed upon him under false pretenses.
Question 15.
Why was the ironmaster displeased when he saw the peddler clearly in broad daylight?
The ironmaster’s expression darkened as he stared at the peddler with a furrowed brow, clearly displeased by the sight before him. The realization dawned on him that the figure he had seen only in the dim reflections of the furnace looked nothing like the man standing before him in the bright light of day. It became apparent to the ironmaster that any possibility of mistaken identity had vanished in the clear daylight. The peddler’s unmistakable features confirmed the ironmaster’s suspicions and brought an abrupt end to the facade of uncertainty. The ironmaster’s agitation grew as he grappled with the implications of this revelation, leading him to thunder a question demanding an explanation from the stranger.
Question 16.
How did the peddler change in appearance when he entered the room after being groomed?
Upon entering the room after being groomed, the peddler exhibited a noticeable transformation in his appearance. He was adorned in a well-fitted suit that belonged to the ironmaster, giving him a more refined and polished look. Additionally, he wore a crisp white shirt with a starched collar, a stark contrast to his previously disheveled appearance. Completing his ensemble, he had on a pair of intact shoes, presenting a more put-together and respectable image.
Question 17.
Why did the ironmaster’s daughter find it strange that the peddler had once been an educated man?
The ironmaster’s daughter found it strange that the peddler had once been an educated man because upon first impression, there was nothing about him that indicated his prior education. During their encounter, the daughter did not perceive any discernible qualities or behaviors typically associated with educated individuals. This lack of evident sophistication or knowledge in the peddler contradicted the daughter’s preconceived notions of what an educated person should appear like, leading to her surprise at learning about his educational background.
Question 18.
How did the ironmaster feel about his old regimental comrade and what did he plan to do for him?
The ironmaster was pleased to have unexpectedly encountered his old regimental comrade and felt compelled to help improve his companion’s situation. He expressed a desire to ensure that his comrade regained some weight and found more meaningful work than travelling to sell rattraps around the countryside.
Question 19.
Why was the peddler cursing himself in the passage?
The peddler was cursing himself in the passage because he regretted the decision he had made earlier. He was feeling trapped and frustrated with himself for accepting someone else’s money, as he believed it had led him into a difficult situation with seemingly no way out.
Question 20.
What did the peddler do with the fur coat offered to him and how did he feel on the way to the manor house?
Upon receiving the fur coat from the valet, the peddler gratefully accepted the garment with a deep bow. He quickly draped it over his tattered rags and followed the young lady out to the waiting carriage without acknowledging the bewildered blacksmiths nearby. As he rode towards the manor house, a sense of impending doom crept over him, casting a shadow on his journey. The weight of the fur coat seemed to add to his worries, leaving him with a feeling of unease and apprehension about what awaited him at the grand estate.
Question 21.
How did Edla’s friendly manner make the rattrap peddler feel?
Edla’s friendly manner instilled a sense of confidence in the rattrap peddler, making him feel at ease and valued. Her warm approach reassured the peddler that he was worthy of her attention and assistance, prompting him to respond with gratitude and a willingness to accept her help without hesitation.
Question 22.
What does the word “compassionately” mean in the context of the passage?
In the given passage, the word “compassionately” refers to Edla looking at the peddler with sympathy, understanding, and concern for his situation. It denotes a sense of kindness and empathy towards others, reflecting a genuine feeling of care and awareness for the peddler’s circumstances. The use of the word implies that Edla’s gaze towards the peddler was characterized by a deep emotional connection, displaying her sincere feelings of compassion and support for him.
Question 23.
Who is the young girl named Edla Willmansson and what does she do in the passage?
In the passage, the young girl named Edla Willmansson introduces herself to the Captain and expresses her sympathy for his difficult situation. She mentions that her father informed her about the Captain’s need for a place to rest, and she took the initiative to invite him to her home. Edla’s actions demonstrate her kindness and compassion towards the Captain, showing her willingness to offer help and make him feel comfortable during his stay.
Question 24.
How did the ironmaster’s daughter react upon seeing the peddler sleeping in the forge?
Upon spotting the peddler asleep in the forge, the ironmaster’s daughter approached him and gently lifted his hat. The sudden movement startled the peddler, who swiftly awakened, looking surprised and somewhat fearful.
Question 25.
Who did the ironmaster send to persuade the peddler to come to the manor house?
The ironmaster sent his daughter, who appeared modest and shy, accompanied by a valet carrying a big fur coat, to persuade the peddler to come to the manor house.
Question 26.
How did the peddler respond to the ironmaster’s invitation and what did the ironmaster do next?
The peddler initially declined the ironmaster’s invitation multiple times, clearly showing his reluctance to accept the offer. Finally, the ironmaster understood the peddler’s hesitation and decided to redirect his invitation to the master blacksmith instead. He subtly indicated this change by mentioning that it seemed as though the peddler would be staying with the master blacksmith for the evening, acknowledging the peddler’s refusal in a diplomatic manner.
Question 27.
What reason did the ironmaster give for inviting the peddler to his home for Christmas?
The reason the ironmaster gave for inviting the peddler to his home for Christmas was to offer comfort and companionship during the holiday season. He informed the peddler that his own home was a welcoming and ordinary place, and that his family members were either settled abroad or no longer living. By extending the invitation, the ironmaster hoped to provide the peddler with a sense of warmth and belonging during Christmas by offering him the opportunity to celebrate the festive occasion with his daughter and himself.
Question 28.
Why did the tramp refuse the ironmaster’s invitation to the manor house?
The tramp denied the ironmaster’s invitation to the manor house due to his deep-seated fear of visiting unfamiliar, grand homes. He was particularly apprehensive about staying in the residence of a military figure, believing it to be an unsafe environment for him. Instead, he preferred the comfort and anonymity of the forge where he could rest before quietly departing. The tramp’s refusal was not driven by a sense of embarrassment over his shabby appearance, as the ironmaster perceived, but rather by his unease with the grandeur of the manor and the unfamiliarity of the situation.
Question 29.
What mistake did the ironmaster mention the peddler made regarding resigning from the regiment?
The ironmaster expressed that the mistake the peddler made was resigning from the regiment. He believed that had the peddler not resigned from the regiment, the unfortunate event would not have occurred.
Question 30.
Why did the peddler not correct the ironmaster’s mistaken identity of him as Nils Olof?
The peddler chose not to correct the ironmaster’s mistaken identity of him as Nils Olof because he perceived an opportunity to benefit from the situation. Believing that the ironmaster might give him money out of pity if he thought he was an old acquaintance, the peddler saw this as a potential advantage and decided not to undeceive the ironmaster.
Question 31.
How did the ironmaster react to the peddler sitting close to the furnace?
The ironmaster took immediate notice of the peddler sitting very near the furnace, so close that steam was escaping from his ripped garments. Not hesitating, the ironmaster approached the peddler and even took the wanderer’s hat off, which was slightly crooked, in order to get a clear view of the man’s face.
Question 32.
Who owned the Ramsjo iron mill and what was his main ambition?
The Ramsjo iron mill was owned by a highly ambitious individual who was determined to deliver only the highest quality iron products to the market.
Question 33.
How did the blacksmith react to the rattrap seller’s request to stay?
The blacksmith arrogantly agreed to the rattrap seller’s request to stay by nodding silently without saying a word.
Question 34.
Why did homeless vagabonds often come to the forge?
Homeless vagabonds were often drawn to the forge because the glowing light that seeped through the dirty windows served as a beacon guiding them to a place where they could seek refuge and warmth. The forge provided a comforting respite for those without better shelter for the night, offering them the opportunity to gather by the fire and alleviate the cold that permeated the streets.
Question 35.
Why did the blacksmith not notice the man entering the forge?
The blacksmith did not notice the man entering the forge because it was common for homeless wanderers seeking shelter to be drawn by the light escaping through the dirty windows and enter to warm themselves by the fire. The blacksmiths typically glanced disinterestedly at such visitors.
Question 36.
What sounds could be heard in the forge?
In the forge, one could hear a symphony of sounds. The big bellows groaned as they pumped air into the furnace, while the burning coal crackled and sizzled. The fire boy’s clattering shovel added to the cacophony as he fed charcoal into the hungry furnace. Outside, the thunderous roar of the waterfall created a constant backdrop, accompanied by the sharp winds that whipped the rain against the roof’s brick tiles.
Question 37.
What were the Ramsjo Ironworks like and how did they operate?
The Ramsjo Ironworks was a significant industrial facility, showcasing a blend of traditional methods and advanced technology. Situated by a canal and a large inland lake, it contained essential components such as a smelter, rolling mill, and forge. The ironworks experienced periods of peak activity, with material transported via boats during the warmer months and coal dust-laden roads in the winter due to the transportation of charcoal crates. This operation exemplified a combination of water and land transportation methods to keep the facility supplied and functional.
Question 38.
What sound did the peddler hear in the forest, and what did he think it was?
The peddler heard a distinct thumping noise in the forest, which led him to believe that it was the sound of hammer strikes coming from an iron mill.
Question 39.
How did the peddler feel as he walked through the confusing forest?
As the peddler ventured deeper into the forest, his initial sense of happiness from having money in his pocket quickly turned to confusion and fear. At first, he took solace in the shelter of the trees, believing it to be a safer alternative to the highway. However, as the path twisted and turned, he soon became disoriented, losing all sense of direction. Each attempt to progress forward only resulted in leading him back to the same point of uncertainty. In this state of bewildered repetition, he began to realize the grim reality of his situation.
Feelings of being ensnared in a trap, akin to those he sought to avoid on the highway, started to weigh heavily upon him. The forest, once a symbol of temporary refuge, now appeared as a menacing prison with its entangled branches and towering trunks closing in around him. The ill-gotten money he carried served as a bitter reminder of the moral boundaries he had crossed, leaving him feeling deceived and trapped by his own greed. The shifting shadows of the forest began to mirror his own inner turmoil, creating an atmosphere of suffocating confinement and regret.
Question 40.
Why did the peddler decide to walk through the forest instead of on the public highway?
The peddler chose to navigate through the forest instead of the public highway due to a combination of feeling pleased with his cunning after committing theft and being concerned about potential danger and getting caught. This decision stemmed from his realization that continuing along the public highway would pose a risk to his safety and increase the likelihood of being apprehended. Ultimately, the peddler’s motivation to take the forest route was driven by a desire to avoid detection and secure his ill-gotten gains.
Question 41.
What happened when the rattrap seller returned to the cottage?
When the rattrap seller returned to the cottage, he broke the window pane where the pouch hung, retrieved the money, placed the pouch back in its original spot, pocketed the money, and then walked away.
Question 42.
What does the rattrap seller do after taking the money from the pouch?
After receiving the money from the pouch, the rattrap seller left the scene without delay.
Question 43.
How does the rattrap seller acquire money from the old man’s pouch?
The rattrap seller acquired money from the old man’s pouch by breaking a window, reaching in, taking the pouch with the money, putting it in his own pocket, carefully hanging the pouch back in its place, and then leaving.
Question 44.
What happens when both men part ways the next morning?
The following day, both men rose early. The crofter, eager to begin his chores, headed to milk his cow. The other man, out of respect, also rose promptly. After leaving the cottage simultaneously, the crofter secured the door and pocketed the key. The man who had received the rattraps bid farewell and expressed gratitude before they each went their separate paths.
Question 45.
How does the old man try to convince the rattrap seller of his earnings from the cow?
The old man attempted to convey his credibility to the rattrap seller by displaying his doubt in him. He rose from his seat and went over to the window, extracting a weathered leather pouch that was hanging on a nail nearby. From this worn pouch, he extracted three aged ten-kronor bills, presenting them to the rattrap seller with a knowing nod. After briefly showcasing the money, he returned the bills back into the pouch, further emphasizing his point.
Question 46.
How does the old man welcome the rattrap seller into his cottage?
The old man warmly welcomed the rattrap seller into his cottage, sharing not only his porridge and tobacco but also his life story. He recounted his days as a crofter at Ramsjo Ironworks and his work on the land. Despite no longer being able to do day labor, he found solace in his cow, which provided for him. He proudly spoke of her ability to produce milk for the creamery, earning him a respectable sum each month. To prove his words, he showed the guest the money he had earned, demonstrating the cow’s significance in sustaining his livelihood.
Question 47.
How does the man find joy in thinking ill of the world and people around him?
The man derives pleasure from harboring negative thoughts about the world and those around him due to his own unfavorable experiences. This pessimistic outlook becomes a source of satisfaction for him, providing solace and entertainment during his mundane activities. By focusing on the flaws and missteps of others, he is able to feel a sense of superiority and validation for his cynicism, thereby finding a perverse sense of joy in his critical observations.
Question 48.
In what way does the man compare the world to a rattrap in the passage?
The man in the passage compares the world to a rattrap by describing it as a deceptive device that lures people in with baits. He suggests that the world, with all its lands, seas, cities, and villages, serves the purpose of trapping people just like a rattrap captures its prey.
Question 49.
How is the man’s appearance described in the passage?
The man’s clothing was torn and tattered, his cheeks appeared hollow and sunken, and his eyes reflected a deep sense of hunger.
Question 50.
What is the meaning of “Odd Moments” as used in the passage?
The meaning of “Odd Moments” as used in the passage is clarified to refer to a brief period of time that is available for relaxation or leisure, typically occurring sporadically or unexpectedly. In this context, “Odd Moments” are described as short intervals of free time that can be utilized for personal enjoyment or relaxatio