Summary of English Chapter 4 The Rattrap Class 12
Summary of English Chapter 4 The Rattrap Class 12
- “The Rattrap” is a short story by Swedish writer Selma Lagerlöf. It is a touching tale that explores human loneliness, the inherent goodness in people, and the power of kindness and redemption.
- The story revolves around a poor vagabond who goes around selling rattraps made of wire. He is a man who has fallen on hard times and is often hungry and without shelter. He also indulges in petty thefts and survives on the charity or vulnerability of others. The protagonist begins to think of the world as a rattrap. Just like the rattrap used to catch rats, he believes the world offers bait — food, shelter, and luxuries — to trap people. Once someone gets caught, they are ensnared forever, unable to escape the consequences of greed.
- One cold evening, the peddler seeks shelter at a small cottage belonging to an old crofter. The crofter is a lonely man and welcomes the peddler, giving him food and even sharing that he has recently earned 30 kronor from selling cow’s milk. He shows the peddler where he keeps the money. However, the next morning, the peddler robs him and runs into the forest. Soon, he realizes that the forest is like a maze and he is lost. He begins to feel that he has truly fallen into the rattrap of the world — lured by money and now trapped in fear and guilt.
- Eventually, the peddler finds shelter at the ironworks, where he is mistaken by the ironmaster for an old acquaintance. Though the ironmaster finds out the truth, his daughter Edla still persuades her father to let the man stay for Christmas. Edla treats the peddler with dignity, kindness, and genuine compassion, even after knowing his true identity. Her respect and empathy make a deep impression on the peddler.
- On Christmas morning, the ironmaster and Edla find a small gift left behind by the peddler, who has quietly left. Inside the gift is a rattrap, 30 kronor (the money he stole), and a note in which he confesses his theft. He thanks Edla for treating him like a real human being and not with contempt. He signs the note as “Captain von Stahle,” implying that her kindness has awakened the gentleman within him.
Summary of English Chapter 4 The Rattrap Class 12
