This post provides a simple, and value point wise breakdown of ‘The Rattrap’ for Class 12 Flamingo Book. We’ll share the main points and key takeaways from the story, making it easy to understand and remember. Whether you’re studying for class or teaching it, this post has got you covered with all the important events and flow you need to know about The Rattrap.
The Rattrap Value Points
1. Setting of the Story Rattrap: The story is set in the early 20th century in Sweden, moving through many locations like the forest, the crofter’s cottage, and the ironworks, Concluding at the ironmaster’s manor during Christmas time.
2. Introduction to the Peddler: A poor peddler wanders around selling rattraps made of wire. He also begs and steals to survive.
3. Peddler’s View of the World: He imagines the world as a giant rattrap that offers temptations to trap people.
4. Loneliness and Despair: The peddler’s life is lonely and filled with despair as he walks through the forest.
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5. Meeting the Crofter: One evening, the peddler asks a crofter for shelter. The crofter, who is lonely, welcomes him warmly.
6. Crofter’s Generosity: The crofter shares his food, tobacco, and even shows the peddler his money.
7. Betrayal of Trust: The next morning, the peddler steals the crofter’s money and runs away.
8. Lost in the Forest: The peddler tries to avoid the main road to escape detection and gets lost in the forest.
9. Despair in the Forest: He feels trapped in the forest, just like the world being a rattrap.
10. Hearing the Iron Mill: The peddler hears the sounds of an iron mill and follows the sound to find people.
11. Meeting the Ironmaster: The ironmaster mistakes the peddler for an old friend due to the poor light.
12. Peddler’s Refusal: The peddler is afraid of being caught with the stolen money and refuses the ironmaster’s invitation to his home.
13. Edla’s Compassion: Edla Willmansson, the ironmaster’s daughter, convinces the peddler to come home with her kind and compassionate approach.
14. Christmas Eve at the Manor: The peddler enjoys a warm and safe Christmas Eve at the ironmaster’s house.
15. Ironmaster’s Realisation: The next morning, the ironmaster realises his mistake and threatens to call the sheriff.
16. Peddler’s Defence: The peddler explains his view of the world as a rattrap and accepts his fate.
17. Edla’s Intervention: Edla insists that the peddler stay for Christmas, showing her strong empathy and kindness.
18. Peddler’s Transformation: The peddler is deeply moved by Edla’s kindness and decides to change his ways.
19. Leaving a Gift: The peddler leaves a small rattrap, the stolen money, and a note for Edla, thanking her for her kindness and addressing her as “Captain von Stahle.”
20. Message of Redemption: The peddler’s actions show that kindness and compassion can lead to a person’s redemption.
21. Importance of Empathy: The story emphasises the importance of understanding and caring for others, as shown by Edla’s actions.
22. Conclusion: The story ends with a powerful message about the transformative power of kindness and empathy. Edla’s compassion changes the peddler’s life, showing that understanding and caring for others can lead to redemption and positive change.