1. Introduction to the Story
The Rattrap is a famous story by Selma Lagerlöf. It teaches an important moral lesson about human kindness, redemption, and the power of compassion. The story uses a simple idea—a rattrap (a trap used to catch rats)—to explain how people can get trapped in life.
2. Main Characters
The Peddler (Ragged man) – A poor man who sells rattraps and lives a lonely, dishonest life.
The Crofter (Old man) – A kind and trusting man who helps the peddler.
Edla Willmansson – A compassionate young woman who believes in goodness.
The Ironmaster – Edla's father, a wealthy man who mistakes the peddler for someone else.
3. Detailed Story Explanation
(a) The Peddler's Life and Philosophy
The story begins with a poor peddler who sells rattraps. He lives a miserable life and survives by begging and stealing.
One day, he thinks about the world as a big rattrap:
The world offers temptations (like money, comfort, food) just like bait in a trap.
Once someone gets attracted, they get trapped in problems and suffering.
This idea becomes the central theme of the story.
(b) Meeting the Crofter
One evening, the peddler asks for shelter at a crofter's cottage. The old man:
Welcomes him warmly
Gives him food and tobacco
Shares his life story
The crofter proudly shows the peddler 30 kronor (his savings), keeping them in a pouch.
But here comes the turning point:
The peddler is tempted by money (the "bait")
He steals the money and runs away
This proves his own theory—he has fallen into the "rattrap" of greed.
(c) Lost in the Forest
After stealing, the peddler walks through a forest but:
He loses his way
Walks in circles
Feels trapped and scared
At this moment, he realizes:
He himself is caught in the world's rattrap.
This scene shows his fear and realization.
(d) Arrival at the Iron Mill
The peddler reaches an iron mill where he meets the Ironmaster.
The Ironmaster:
Mistakes him for an old friend (Captain von Stahle)
Invites him home
The peddler refuses because:
He fears being caught for stealing
But later, Edla Willmansson persuades him with kindness, and he agrees.
(e) Edla's Kindness
At the ironmaster's house:
The truth comes out—the peddler is not the captain
The Ironmaster becomes angry and wants him to leave
But Edla:
Shows kindness and understanding
Lets him stay for Christmas
Treats him with respect and dignity
This is the most important part of the story:
Edla sees him not as a thief, but as a human being
(f) The Peddler's Transformation
Edla's kindness changes the peddler deeply:
He feels ashamed of his actions
He decides to change
Before leaving, he:
Returns the stolen money
Leaves a letter and a rattrap for Edla
Signs himself as "Captain von Stahle" (symbolizing his new identity)
4. Themes of the Story
(1) The World as a Rattrap
Life is full of temptations (money, greed)
If we give in, we get trapped in problems
(2) Power of Kindness
Edla's compassion reforms the peddler
Kindness can change even a criminal
(3) Redemption
The peddler moves from thief → honest person
Everyone deserves a second chance
(4) Loneliness and Human Connection
The peddler was lonely and bitter
Love and respect made him better
5. Moral of the Story
Greed leads to trouble
Kindness can transform lives
Never judge people only by their appearance
Everyone has the potential to change
6. Conclusion
The Rattrap is not just about a thief—it is about human nature. The story beautifully shows that while the world may trap people in greed and mistakes, love and compassion can set them free.