1. Why did the peddler think that the whole world was a rattrap?
The peddler believed that the world was "nothing but a big rattrap." According to him, riches, food, shelter and other comforts were merely "bait" placed to tempt people. Once attracted by these worldly pleasures, people became trapped in sorrow and suffering, just like rats caught in a trap. Ironically, after stealing the crofter's money, the peddler himself became trapped in the forest, proving that his philosophy applied to his own life as well.
2. Describe the meeting between the peddler and the old crofter.
The old crofter welcomed the peddler with great warmth and hospitality. Being lonely, he enjoyed the peddler's company and shared food, tobacco and a comfortable bed with him. He proudly showed the "thirty kronor" he had earned by selling milk and trusted the peddler completely. However, tempted by greed, the peddler betrayed this trust and stole the money, showing how poverty and temptation can overpower gratitude.
3. How did the peddler get trapped in the forest? What did he realise?
After stealing the crofter's money, the peddler avoided the public road and entered the forest. Instead of escaping, he wandered "in the same part of the forest" and could not find his way out. Tired and frightened, he realised that he himself had been caught in the "big rattrap" of the world. His greed had trapped him both physically and morally, making his own philosophy come true.
4. How did Edla Willmansson transform the peddler?
Edla treated the peddler "like a captain" and made him feel respected despite knowing he was poor. Her kindness and sympathy awakened his sleeping conscience. For the first time, he experienced genuine human affection without any selfish motive. Deeply moved, he returned the stolen money, left a letter for the crofter and signed it "Captain von Stahle," showing that Edla's compassion had transformed him into an honest and self-respecting man.
5. Why did the ironmaster invite the peddler to his house? What happened later?
The ironmaster mistook the peddler for his old acquaintance, Captain von Stahle, and invited him home for Christmas. When he discovered that the man was only a poor peddler, he felt cheated and became angry. However, Edla insisted that the guest should stay because he had accepted the invitation. Her decision proved wise, as the peddler later returned the "thirty kronor" and showed that kindness could reform a person.
6. What is the message of the story?
Selma Lagerlöf conveys that the world may appear to be "a big rattrap," full of greed and temptation, but love and compassion can free people from it. The peddler's transformation shows that no one is beyond redemption if treated with dignity and respect. Through Edla's kindness and the peddler's change of heart, the story teaches that goodness inspires goodness and that faith in humanity can bring out the best in even the most troubled individuals.
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