The Rattrap by Selma Lagerlöf
Introduction:
"The Rattrap" is a short story by Swedish author Selma Lagerlöf. It is a heartwarming tale
that explores the power of kindness and redemption. The story is set in the rural
countryside of Sweden and revolves around a poor vagabond who gets involved in a series
of events that transform his life.
Historical Background:
Selma Lagerlöf, born in 1858, was a renowned Swedish author and the first woman to win
the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1909. "The Rattrap" reflects the societal conditions and
human values prevalent during the early 20th century. Lagerlöf's stories often emphasize
moral and ethical themes, and "The Rattrap" is no exception.
Theme:
The central theme of "The Rattrap" is the power of kindness and compassion in
transforming lives. The story highlights how genuine acts of kindness can awaken the
inherent goodness in even the most hardened individuals. It also explores the idea that
life can be like a rattrap, where materialistic temptations and hardships can trap people,
but there is always hope for redemption through love and understanding.
Justification of the Title:
The title "The Rattrap" is metaphorical and symbolizes the main character's view of the
world. The protagonist, a poor peddler, believes that the world is like a giant rattrap that
offers riches and joys as bait to trap people. Throughout the story, this metaphor is used
to illustrate the struggles and temptations faced by the peddler and his ultimate realization
of the value of kindness and humanity.
Summary in Points:
Introduction of the Peddler: The story begins with the introduction of the protagonist, a
poor and homeless peddler who roams the countryside selling rattraps made of wire.
The Philosophy of the Rattrap: The peddler reflects on his belief that the world is a rattrap
that offers materialistic temptations to trap people.
Shelter at the Crofter's House: One evening, the peddler seeks shelter at the house of a
lonely crofter, who is kind and generous to him.
The Theft: Despite the crofter's kindness, the peddler succumbs to temptation and steals
the crofter's money.
Lost in the Forest: The peddler, now guilty and fearful, gets lost in the forest while trying
to escape.
The Ironmaster's Invitation: The peddler stumbles upon the ironworks, where the
ironmaster mistakes him for an old acquaintance and invites him home.
Edla's Compassion: The ironmaster's daughter, Edla, shows compassion towards the
peddler and convinces her father to allow him to stay.
Christmas Eve Transformation: On Christmas Eve, Edla's kindness and generosity touch
the peddler, leading to a transformation in his attitude.
The Revelation: The next morning, the peddler leaves a letter for Edla, revealing his true
identity and returning the stolen money.
The Message of Redemption: The story concludes with the peddler's redemption,
emphasizing the transformative power of kindness and compassion.