‘The Rattrap’ Question & Answers Class 12 English Book Flamingo

NCERT Class 12 English Core book ‘Flamingo’ question and answers for the lesson “The Rattrap” are given here. You can also see Notes of this lesson. Click for more resources on the book “Flamingo”.

Intext-Question & Answers

Think and answer:

Page: 34

1. From where did the peddler get the idea of the world being a rattrap?
2. Why was he amused by this idea?
3. Did the peddler expect the kind of hospitality that he received from the crofter?
4. Why was the crofter so talkative and friendly with the peddler?
5. Why did he show the thirty kroner to the peddler?
6. Did the peddler respect the confidence reposed in him by the crofter?

Answers:

1. From where did the peddler get the idea of the world being a rattrap?

• Ans. The peddler got the idea from his contemplation about life while thinking of his rattraps. He perceived the world as a rattrap because, like the rattrap that lures rats with baits, the world tempts people with riches, joys, and comforts, only to entangle them in troubles once they are ensnared.

2. Why was he amused by this idea?

• Ans. The peddler found amusement in this idea because it provided him with a different perspective on his own hardships. By viewing the world as a rattrap, he could find some solace in the thought that everyone, including himself, could be ensnared by the baits set by the world.

3. Did the peddler expect the kind of hospitality that he received from the crofter?

• Ans. No, the peddler did not expect such hospitality. His usual experience involved rejection and cold treatment from people. The crofter’s warm welcome and generosity were unexpected, bringing the peddler both surprise and joy.

4. Why was the crofter so talkative and friendly with the peddler?

• Ans. The crofter, an old man living alone, was likely pleased to have someone to talk to and share his solitude. The peddler’s arrival provided companionship, and the crofter’s talkativeness and friendliness reflected his joy at having a guest.

5. Why did he show the thirty kroner to the peddler?

• Ans. The crofter showed the thirty kroner to the peddler to share his happiness and perhaps to prove that, despite his humble circumstances, he had a source of income and could afford to be generous. It was a display of both trust and camaraderie.

6. Did the peddler respect the confidence reposed in him by the crofter?

• Ans. Yes, the peddler respected the confidence reposed in him by the crofter. He did not attempt to take advantage of the crofter’s trust during their initial encounter. It was only later, after leaving the crofter’s cottage, that the peddler resorted to theft.

Page: 37

1. What made the peddler think that he had indeed fallen into a rattrap?

2. Why did the ironmaster speak kindly to the peddler and invite him home?

3. Why did the peddler decline the invitation?

Answers

1. What made the peddler think that he had indeed fallen into a rattrap?

• Ans. The peddler thought he had fallen into a rattrap when he realized that the world, like the rattrap he had in mind, was set up to entice people with baits. The various temptations offered by the world, such as riches and comforts, were analogous to the baits in a rattrap. Once someone succumbed to these temptations, they would be ensnared, just like a rat caught in a rattrap.

2. Why did the ironmaster speak kindly to the peddler and invite him home?

• Ans. The ironmaster mistook the peddler for an old regimental comrade named Captain von Stahle. Believing that the peddler was an acquaintance from his past, the ironmaster spoke kindly and invited him home out of a sense of camaraderie and hospitality. The ironmaster thought he recognized the peddler as someone he knew, and this influenced his benevolent behaviour.

3. Why did the peddler decline the invitation?

• Ans. The peddler declined the invitation because he feared the consequences of accepting the hospitality. He had recently stolen money from the crofter and felt that going to the ironmaster’s house would be like voluntarily walking into a trap. His reluctance was driven by the guilt and apprehension about potential repercussions for his actions.

Page: 41

1. What made the peddler accept Edla Willmansson’s invitation?

2. What doubts did Edla have about the peddler?

3. When did the ironmaster realise his mistake?

4. What did the peddler say in his defence when it was clear that he was not the person the ironmaster had thought he was?

5. Why did Edla still entertain the peddler even after she knew the truth about him?

Answers

1. What made the peddler accept Edla Willmansson’s invitation?

• Ans. The peddler accepted Edla Willmansson’s invitation because she treated him with kindness and compassion. Despite knowing the peddler’s true identity, Edla empathized with his hardships and invited him to spend Christmas Eve with her family. Her genuine concern and hospitality influenced the peddler to accept the invitation.

2. What doubts did Edla have about the peddler?

• Ans. Edla suspected that the peddler might be a thief or an escaped convict. When she first saw him in the forge, she thought he looked frightened, and the idea crossed her mind that he could be someone with a criminal background. Despite these doubts, she chose to extend kindness and hospitality towards him.

3. When did the ironmaster realise his mistake?

• Ans. The ironmaster realized his mistake when he saw the peddler in broad daylight. Initially mistaking him for an old regimental comrade, the ironmaster’s error became apparent when he observed the peddler more closely and recognized that he was not the person he thought he was.

4. What did the peddler say in his defence when it was clear that he was not the person the ironmaster had thought he was?

• Ans. The peddler explained that he never pretended to be anything but a poor trader. He admitted to pleading and begging to be allowed to stay in the forge and emphasized that no harm had been done. Despite the misunderstanding, the peddler defended his actions as those of a struggling individual seeking shelter.

5. Why did Edla still entertain the peddler even after she knew the truth about him?

• Ans. Edla continued to entertain the peddler because of her compassionate nature. She believed in giving him a chance to experience a day of peace and warmth during Christmas. Edla’s empathy towards the peddler transcended his social status, and she wanted to provide him with a respite from his struggles, even after learning about his true identity.

Page: 42

1. Why was Edla happy to see the gift left by the peddler?

2. Why did the peddler sign himself as Captain von Stahle?

Answers

1. Why was Edla happy to see the gift left by the peddler?

• Ans. Edla was happy to see the gift left by the peddler because it contained three ten-kronor notes and a letter. The notes were a generous Christmas present, and the letter explained that the peddler wanted to repay Edla’s kindness. The contents of the gift brought joy to Edla, and she appreciated the peddler’s gesture of gratitude and the success of his kindness and generosity showed toward the peddler as he was a transformed man now.

2. Why did the peddler sign himself as Captain von Stahle?

• Ans. The peddler signed himself as Captain von Stahle as a symbolic gesture. By adopting the title of “Captain,” he elevated himself from his humble status as a rattrap peddler. It allowed him to present himself in a dignified manner, emphasizing the idea that he had the power to overcome his circumstances. The use of the title may have been a way for the peddler to assert a sense of agency and self-worth in the face of societal challenges.

Textbook Exercise Questions

Understanding the text

1. How does the peddler interpret the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster and his daughter?
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?
3. The story has many instances of unexpected reactions from the characters to others’ behaviour. Pick out instances of these surprises.
4. What made the peddler finally change his ways?
5. How does the metaphor of the rattrap serve to highlight the human predicament?
6. The peddler comes out as a person with a subtle sense of humour. How does this serve in lightening the seriousness of the theme of the story and also endear him to us?

Answers:

Q1. How does the peddler interpret the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster, and his daughter?

Answer: The peddler interprets the acts of kindness and hospitality with suspicion at first. He believes that the world is like a rattrap, and these kind gestures are the “bait” trying to trap him. However, he is also touched by Edla’s genuine kindness, which eventually leads him to reconsider his cynical view of the world.

Another Answer: The peddler initially sees the kindness and hospitality of the crofter, the ironmaster, and his daughter with suspicion. He is used to being treated poorly and believes that kindness is a bait, just like in a rattrap, designed to trap him. However, as the story progresses, especially with Edla’s genuine care, he begins to see that there are people who offer kindness without expecting anything in return, which ultimately changes his outlook.

Q2. 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?

Answer: The required instances are given below.

• Ironmaster’s Impulsiveness vs. Edla’s Compassion: The ironmaster is quick to invite the peddler home, thinking he is an old acquaintance. When he realizes his mistake, he is ready to throw the peddler out. In contrast, Edla, his daughter, shows compassion and insists that they let the peddler stay even after discovering his true identity.
• Ironmaster’s Harshness vs. Edla’s Kindness: The ironmaster threatens to call the sheriff when he discovers the peddler’s deception, but Edla sees the peddler as a human being in need of kindness and allows him to stay for Christmas.

Another Answer:

• The Ironmaster: He is quick to judge and assumes the peddler is an old acquaintance. When he realizes his mistake, he becomes angry and is ready to turn the peddler out, showing that his kindness was conditional.
• Edla: In contrast, Edla shows unconditional kindness. Even after discovering that the peddler is not who they thought he was, she still insists on letting him stay for Christmas because she believes in treating everyone with compassion, especially during the festive season.

Q3. The story has many instances of unexpected reactions from the characters to others’ behaviour. Pick out instances of these surprises.

• The Ironmaster’s Reaction: The ironmaster is surprised when he realizes that the peddler is not his old friend. Instead of being furious immediately, he hesitates and then laughs at the situation.
• Edla’s Compassion: Even after discovering that the peddler is not who he pretended to be, Edla surprises her father by insisting that he stay for Christmas, showing her deep sense of empathy.
• Peddler’s Gift: The biggest surprise is when the peddler, who is expected to steal, leaves behind the stolen money as a gift, along with a note, showing that he was touched by Edla’s kindness.

Another Answer:

• Peddler’s Reaction to the Crofter’s Kindness: Instead of appreciating the crofter’s kindness, the peddler steals his money.
• The Ironmaster’s Anger: The ironmaster becomes angry when he realizes the peddler is not his old comrade, which contrasts with his initial warmth.
• Edla’s Compassion: Even after learning the peddler’s true identity, Edla surprises everyone by continuing to treat him with kindness and respect.
• Peddler’s Gift: The biggest surprise is the peddler leaving the stolen money and a letter behind as a Christmas gift for Edla, showing his transformation.

Q4. What made the peddler finally change his ways?

Answer: The peddler finally changes his ways because of the kindness and trust shown to him by Edla. Despite knowing he was a thief, Edla treated him with respect and gave him a chance to redeem himself. Her genuine warmth and compassion made him feel valued and trusted, leading him to return the stolen money and leave behind a note, showing that he had been transformed by her kindness.

Another Answer: The peddler finally changes his ways because of Edla’s unwavering kindness and understanding. Her genuine compassion touches him deeply and makes him realize that he doesn’t have to live as a thief and outcast. Her treatment helps him regain a sense of self-respect, leading him to return the money he had stolen and leave a note expressing his gratitude.

Q5. How does the metaphor of the rattrap serve to highlight the human predicament?

Answer: The metaphor of the rattrap highlights how people can get trapped by their own desires and temptations, much like a rat is trapped by the bait in a rattrap. It reflects the peddler’s view of the world as a place full of temptations that lead people into trouble. However, it also shows that kindness and compassion can help someone escape from this trap, just as Edla’s kindness helps the peddler to change his ways.

Another Answer: The metaphor of the rattrap in the story highlights the idea that life is filled with temptations—like money, luxury, and comfort—that can trap people into making poor choices. Just as a rat is lured into a trap by the bait, humans can be lured into difficult situations by material desires. The peddler initially sees life this way, feeling trapped by his circumstances. However, the story also suggests that kindness and compassion can help people escape these metaphorical traps.

Q6. The peddler comes out as a person with a subtle sense of humour. How does this serve in lightening the seriousness of the theme of the story and also endear him to us?

Answer: The peddler’s subtle sense of humour, like when he compares the world to a rattrap or when he speaks about being “captured” by the ironmaster, adds a lighter tone to the story. This humour makes the peddler more relatable and endearing to the reader, as it shows that despite his hardships, he retains a certain perspective on life. It also helps balance the more serious themes of loneliness, poverty, and redemption, making the story more engaging and thought-provoking.

Another Answer: The peddler’s subtle sense of humor, such as when he compares the world to a rattrap or makes witty remarks, adds a light-hearted touch to the story. This humor makes the character more relatable and likable, despite his flaws. It also helps to balance the serious themes of the story, such as poverty, loneliness, and moral dilemmas, making the story more engaging and showing that the peddler, though struggling, still maintains a sense of resilience and humanity.

Talking about the text

Discuss the following in groups of four. Each group can deal with one topic. Present the views of your group to the whole class.

1. The reader’s sympathy is with the peddler right from the beginning of the story. Why is this so? Is the sympathy justified?
2. The story also focuses on human loneliness and the need to bond with others.
3. Have you known/heard of an episode where a good deed or an act of kindness has changed a person’s view of the world?
4. The story is both entertaining and philosophical.

ANSWERS

Q1. The reader’s sympathy is with the peddler right from the beginning of the story. Why is this so? Is the sympathy justified?

Answer: From the beginning of the story, the reader tends to sympathize with the peddler because of his difficult life. He is portrayed as a lonely, impoverished man who roams the countryside selling rattraps. His struggle to keep “body and soul together” and his sense of being an outsider in society evoke a natural compassion. Despite his small act of theft, the reader understands that it stems from desperation rather than malice. His wit and humour in comparing the world to a rattrap also make him more relatable and endearing. This sympathy is justified because, through his journey, we see how the peddler is transformed by the kindness of others, showing that he is not beyond redemption.

Q2. The story also focuses on human loneliness and the need to bond with others.

Answer: The story explores the theme of human loneliness and the deep-seated need for connection. The peddler, who leads a life of isolation, is a prime example of this loneliness. His interactions with the crofter, who shares his life story out of a need for companionship, and with Edla, who treats him with genuine kindness, highlight how human beings crave meaningful connections. The story suggests that even a small act of kindness can break through the walls of loneliness and bring about a sense of belonging. The peddler’s ultimate transformation is a result of experiencing warmth and acceptance, something he had been deprived of for so long.

Q3. Have you known/heard of an episode where a good deed or an act of kindness has changed a person’s view of the world?

Answer: Acts of kindness have the power to change a person’s perspective and life. Instead of recounting any story from our side we may have scenarios – for instance, a story might involve a person who had grown cynical due to life’s hardships but encountered someone who extended kindness without expecting anything in return. This selfless act could restore their faith in humanity and lead them to adopt a more positive outlook on life. In the story, Edla’s kindness towards the peddler, even after learning of his deception, changes him profoundly. He decides to return the stolen money and leave behind a gift, showing that her compassion inspired him to be a better person.

Q4. The Story as Both Entertaining and Philosophical

Answer: “The Rattrap” is a story that balances entertainment with deeper philosophical themes. On one level, it is a simple and engaging tale about a peddler’s journey and the unexpected twists he encounters. The humor and suspense keep the reader entertained. On another level, it delves into profound ideas about life, such as the traps set by material desires, the power of kindness, and the possibility of redemption. The metaphor of the rattrap is particularly effective in conveying the philosophical message that life is full of temptations, but it is also full of opportunities for grace and transformation. The story encourages readers to reflect on their own lives and the “rattraps” they may encounter.

Working with words

1. The man selling rattraps is referred to by many terms such as “peddler, stranger” etc. Pick out all such references to him. What does each of these labels indicate of the context or the attitude of the people around him.
2. You came across the words, plod, trudge, stagger in the story. These words indicate movement accompanied by weariness. Find five other such words with a similar meaning.

ANSWERS

A1. References to the Man Selling Rattraps:

In the story, the man selling rattraps is referred to by various terms such as:

• Peddler: This term is used to describe his occupation of selling rattraps, which is often seen as a lowly and unprofitable job. It indicates that he is a wandering trader, moving from place to place with little stability or respect in society.
• Stranger: This label reflects the fact that he is an unknown person wherever he goes. People do not know him personally and therefore treat him with suspicion and caution. It also highlights his isolation and lack of social connections.
• Vagabond: This term suggests that he is homeless and lives a nomadic life, without a fixed place of residence. It carries a negative connotation, implying that he is unreliable and possibly untrustworthy.
• Tramp: Similar to “vagabond,” this word emphasizes his transient lifestyle and suggests that he is a person of little value, living on the fringes of society.
• Ragamuffin: This term is used to describe someone who is poorly dressed and shabby, indicating his poverty and rough appearance. It suggests that people view him with disdain and pity.

Each of these labels reveals how the people around him perceive him based on his social status, appearance, and occupation. They indicate a lack of respect, trust, and empathy, often judging him by his outward appearance and circumstances rather than his character.

A2. Words Indicating Movement with Weariness:

In addition to “plod,” “trudge,” and “stagger,” here are five other words with similar meanings:

• Limp: To walk with difficulty, typically because of an injury or fatigue, often dragging one’s foot.
• Shuffle: To walk by dragging one’s feet along or without lifting them fully off the ground, usually due to tiredness or laziness.
• Lumber: To move in a slow, heavy, and awkward way, often due to exhaustion or burden.
• Totter: To walk or move unsteadily, as if about to fall, often because of weakness or fatigue.
• Lurch: To move suddenly and unsteadily, often to one side, as if losing balance due to tiredness or instability.

These words convey a sense of physical exhaustion or difficulty in movement, reflecting the weariness of the person or the challenging conditions they are enduring.

Thinking about language

1. Notice the words in bold in the following sentence. “The fire boy shovelled charcoal into the maw of the furnace with a great deal of clatter”. This is a phrase that is used in the specific context of an iron plant. Pick out other such phrases and words from the story that are peculiar to the terminology of ironworks.
2. Mjolis is a card game of Sweden. Name a few indoor games played in your region. ‘Chopar’ could be an example.
3. A crofter is a person who rents or owns a small farm especially in Scotland. Think of other uncommon terms for ‘a small farmer’ including those in your language.

ANSWERS

A1. Phrases and Words Peculiar to Ironworks: Here are some phrases and words from the story that are related to the terminology of ironworks:

• “Forge”: This refers to a place where metal is heated and shaped, commonly associated with blacksmiths.
• “Furnace”: A structure used for heating metal until it melts, a central part of any ironworks or metalworking plant.
• “Charcoal”: A type of fuel used in the forge to generate the high temperatures needed for working with iron and other metals.
• “Hammer strokes”: Refers to the sound and action of hammering metal, common in blacksmithing and metalwork.
• “Ironmaster”: A term for the person who owns or manages an ironworks, indicating his authority and role within the industry.
• “Anvil”: A heavy iron block on which metal is hammered and shaped, essential in forging.

A2. Indoor Games: Some indoor games commonly played in different regions include:

• Ludo: A popular board game where players move pieces around the board based on dice rolls.
• Carrom: A tabletop game where players use a striker to hit and pocket small disks.
• Chess: A strategic board game played between two players, involving pieces like the king, queen, and pawns.
• Snakes and Ladders: A classic board game where players move their pieces according to dice rolls, aiming to reach the top of the board while avoiding snakes.
• Tambola (Housie): A number-based game similar to Bingo, where players match numbers on their cards with those called out by a host.

A3. Terms for ‘Small Farmer’: Some uncommon terms for ‘small farmer’ include:

• Peasant: Traditionally refers to a small-scale farmer, particularly in medieval Europe, but still used in some contexts today.
• Sharecropper: A farmer who works land owned by another and pays rent by giving a share of the crops.
• Smallholder: A person who owns or rents a smallholding, which is a small farm, often used in the context of subsistence farming.
• Tenant Farmer: Someone who farms land owned by someone else, paying rent in cash or produce.
• Bhoomihaar (in some Indian languages): Refers to a small-scale farmer or landowner.

These terms vary across regions and languages, often reflecting the local agricultural practices and social structures.