Chapter: The Rattrap Author: Selma Lagerlöf Genre: Fiction Theme: Compassion, Human Goodness, Redemption Summary: The Rattrap is the story of a poor peddler who sells rattraps made of wire. He leads a miserable life, often resorting to begging and stealing. He views the world as a giant rattrap — offering bait in the form of material comforts that eventually trap people. One day, he steals thirty kronor from an old crofter and runs into the forest. He gets lost and ends up at the ironmaster’s estate. Mistaken for an old acquaintance, he is treated kindly and given shelter, food, and clothes. Though the truth is later revealed, the ironmaster’s daughter, Edla, insists on letting him stay. Her kindness touches the peddler’s heart and transforms him. He leaves a note for Edla, returning the stolen money and expressing gratitude for her goodness. He signs it as "Captain von Stahle" — the identity he was once wrongly given, but which he finally earns through his ...
English Language & Literature