Question

Why did Edla plead with her father not to send the vagabond away? (The Rattrap)

Answer 1

Hint: Selma Lagerlöf's story “ The Rattrap is about a man who lives a destitute existence as a wanderer and poor rattrap vendor. Because of his condition, he sees the world through the eyes of cynicism and sorrow. He sees the world as a rat trap into which we are drawn by the materialistic rat trap.

Complete answer:
Edla was a sweet and caring young lady. She couldn't stand seeing a poor man suffer, especially over the holidays. She couldn't let the concept of making the poor man feel "homelike and Christmassy" on that day go away without a fight. As a result, she pleaded with her father not to expel the vagabond.

They assist the peddler in getting a makeover, dressing him in good clothes and shaving off his beard. The ironmaster then realises he has made a mistake; the peddler was not one of his comrades. As a result, the ironmaster suspects him of being a con artist and chooses to report him. Edla requested him not to do so. The ironmaster and Edla learn the next day from the church about the occurrence at the old crofter's that the peddler was a thief. They rush home, convinced that he has stolen all of the silver.

The peddler, however, did not steal anything, much to their astonishment. He left Edla a letter in the shape of a miniature rattrap.

Note: We can conclude from the anecdote that when people are treated with the respect they deserve, they reciprocate. Love, compassion, understanding, and respect, not worldly things like wealth, fame, or possessions, are what make life worthwhile.