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The Rattrap

The peddler reacts differently to the kindness of the crofter, ironmaster, and his daughter, ultimately changing his attitude due to Edla's genuine compassion. The ironmaster is practical and quick to judge, contrasting with Edla's kindness and understanding. Surprising reactions throughout the story highlight the peddler's transformation, culminating in his return of stolen money after being treated with respect by Edla.

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4 views1 page

The Rattrap

The peddler reacts differently to the kindness of the crofter, ironmaster, and his daughter, ultimately changing his attitude due to Edla's genuine compassion. The ironmaster is practical and quick to judge, contrasting with Edla's kindness and understanding. Surprising reactions throughout the story highlight the peddler's transformation, culminating in his return of stolen money after being treated with respect by Edla.

Uploaded by

n13034243
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

The Rattrap – Answers

1. How does the peddler interpret the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter,
the ironmaster and his daughter?

The peddler reacts differently to the kindness shown by each person. He takes advantage of the crofter’s trust and
steals his money because he is poor and desperate. He believes the ironmaster invites him home only because he
mistakes him for someone else. However, Edla’s kindness is genuine and selfless. She treats him with dignity even
after learning the truth about him. Her compassion touches the peddler deeply and changes his attitude towards life
and people. He finally feels respected and valued as a human being.

2. 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?

The ironmaster and his daughter have very different personalities. The ironmaster is practical and quick to judge
others. He invites the peddler home because he thinks he is an old friend, but becomes angry after discovering the
truth. He fears being cheated and wants to send him away immediately. On the other hand, Edla is kind, patient, and
understanding. She believes that every person deserves respect and care. Even after learning that the man is a thief,
she treats him warmly and allows him to stay peacefully during Christmas.

3. The story has many instances of unexpected reactions from the characters to others’
behaviour. Pick out instances of these surprises.

The story contains many surprising reactions. The crofter warmly welcomes the peddler and even shares his earnings
with him without fear. Surprisingly, the peddler steals the crofter’s money despite receiving kindness. Another surprise
occurs when the ironmaster mistakes the poor peddler for an old friend and invites him home. Edla’s behaviour is also
unexpected because she remains kind even after discovering the peddler’s real identity. The biggest surprise comes
at the end when the peddler returns the stolen money and leaves a note thanking Edla for her kindness and trust.

4. What made the peddler finally change his ways?

The peddler changes because of Edla Willmansson’s kindness and trust. Throughout his life, he had faced rejection,
loneliness, and suspicion from society. However, Edla treated him with respect and compassion, even after
discovering that he was not the person her father thought he was. She welcomed him warmly, gave him food, clothes,
and a peaceful place to stay. Her goodness awakened the hidden honesty within him. The peddler realised that he
could still become a better person. As a result, he returned the stolen money and decided to leave behind his
dishonest ways.

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