L-4 The Rattrap Text-Flamingo

I. Multiple Choice Questions based on an extract:

A.. “Since you have been so nice to me all day long, as if I was a captain, I want to be nice to you,
in return, as if I was a real captain — for I do not want you to be embarrassed at this Christmas
season by a thief; but you can give back the money to the old man on the roadside, who has the
money pouch hanging on the window frame as a bait for poor wanderers. The rattrap is a
Christmas present from a rat who would have been caught in this world’s rattrap if he had not
been raised to captain, because in that way he got power to clear himself. “Written with friendship
and high regard, Captain von Stahle.”

1. Which of the following CANNOT be attributed to the peddler, according to the above extract?

a) indebtedness b) reform c) self-pity d) self-awareness

2. Why did the peddler gift a rattrap as a Christmas present?

a) It was all the peddler had that he could give away, and represented his turn to honesty.

b) It symbolized his successful escape from entrapment as he returned the stolen money.

c) It served as a reminder for Edla to be wary of the dangerous temptations of the world.

d) It was a practical and convenient present that the lady of the house could effectively use.

3. The word ‘frame’ has been used to indicate a rigid structure that surrounds something such as a
picture, door, or windowpane. There are other meanings of ‘frame’ too.

Choose the option that DOES NOT list the meaning of ‘frame’.

1. A PERSON’S BODY WITH REFERENCE TO SIZE ANSD BUILD.

2. A SINGLE COMPLETE PICTURE, IN A SERIES FORMING A CINEMA, TELEVISION, OR VIDEO FILM.

3. THE TRIANGULAR STRUCTURE FOR POSITIONING THE RED BALLS IN SNOOKER

4. A THIN SOLID OBJECT THAT SEALS A CONTAINER OR HOLE; A LID

a) Option (1) b) Option (2) c) Option (3) d) Option (4)

4. This communication includes

1) a promise 2) regret 3) an apology 4) shame

a) only 4 b) only 1 c) 1 & 3 d) 2 & 4

B.. …it was a big and confusing forest which he had gotten into. He tried, to be sure, to walk in a
definite direction, but the paths twisted back and forth so strangely! He walked and walked
without coming to the end of the wood, and finally he realised that he had only been walking
around in the same part of the forest. All at once he recalled his thoughts about the world and the
rattrap. Now his own turn had come. He had let himself be fooled by a bait and had been caught.
The whole forest, with its trunks and branches, its thickets and fallen logs, closed in upon him like
an impenetrable prison from which he could never escape.

1. How would you characterise the mood of the above extract?

a) mysterious, restful b) ominous, despairing

c) thoughtful, whimsical d) philosophical, anguished

2. By what bait had the peddler been fooled?

a) He had chosen to take the ‘safe’ forest route.

b) He had decided to avoid the public highway.

c) He had stolen money from the trusting crofter.

d) He didn’t realize the power of his rattrap analogy.

3. The consequence of ‘his own turn’ having come was that the peddler had ___________

a) got irreversibly lost in the thick, warped forest.

b) been fooled and imprisoned in a hopeless prison.

c) been walking around the same part of the forest.

d) walked the whole forest without finding the end.

4. The above extract richly employs literary devices. Look at the table below.

Choose the option that correctly matches the instances/ examples in Column A with the literary
devices in Column B:

Column A Column B

1. The forest closed in upon the (i) Imagery

peddler like an impenetrable prison.

2. The big and confusing forest with (ii) Allegory

its twisted paths, trunks, branches, thickets and fallen logs.

3. The lost peddler was reminded of the world and the (iii) Metaphor
rattrap.

4. It was a big and confusing forest (iv) Simile

which he had gotten into. The
peddler had been fooled and was
trapped in the forest.

a) 1 - (i) ; 2 – (ii) ; 3 – (iii) ; 4 – (iv)

b) 1 – (iv) ; 2 – (i) ; 3 – (ii) ; 4 – (iii)
c) 1 – (iii) ; 2 – (iv) ; 3 – (i) ; 4 – (ii)
d) 1 – (ii) ; 2 – (iii) ; 3 – (iv) ; 4 – (I

C…Outside roared--------single word.

1. Infer the weather condition/s based on the following:
“… a sharp north wind whipped the rain against the brick-tiled roof.”
Ans: (any one)
 The weather conditions are harsh and severe.
 The sharp wind implies that it is cold and biting, and the word “ whipped” indicates that the
wind is strong and forceful.
 The fact that the rain is being “whipped” against the roof implies that it is coming down
heavily and at an angle, likely due to the strength of the wind.
 This description creates a sense of a stormy and unpleasant weather conditions.

2. Which of the following best explains why the blacksmith did not notice the man entering the
forge?
A. The man was too quiet when he opened the gate.
B. The waterfall outside was making too much noise.
C. The blacksmith was too busy with his work.
D. The man was wearing clothes that blended in with the surroundings.

3. State any one inference about the blacksmiths, from the following lime:
“ The blacksmith glanced only casually and indifferently at the intruder. He looked the way people
of his type usually did….”
Ans….(any one)
 Implies that the blacksmith has encountered individuals like the peddler before and do not
view them as significant or important.
 Suggests lack of empathy or concern for the intruder’s well –being.

4. The master blacksmith did give his consent to the peddler, despite which he is described as
“haughty”, because__________________
Ans..(any one)
 Without any real acknowledgement or respect.
 Nods his consent with no acknowledgement, projecting himself as superior.
 Behaviour can be interpreted as arrogant or disdainful.

5. The noise of the waterfall and wind is compared to a specific action.

Select the most appropriate strategy to describe the comparison.
A. A trumpet playing in a concert hall.
B. A dog barking in a quiet neighbourhood
C. A plane taking off from a runaway.
D. A car horn honking in a traffic jam.

6. Complete the following appropriately:

It can be inferred that the scene is described from the third-person limited point of view
because_____________________
Ans…(any one)
 Describes the actions and thoughts of characters in context, but doesnot provide insight into
their innermost thoughts and feelings.
 The narrator uses objective language and does not reveal their own opinions or biases
D… The crofter locked the door-----------------only been walking around in the same part of the
forest.
1. Why does the idiom “ Parting on good terms”, best capture the meaning of the given line?
“ The man with the rattraps had planned the act of theft in advance?
3. What is the main reason why the rattrap peddler felt ‘ quite pleased with his smartness’ after
stealing the money?
A . He outsmarted the crofter by taking the advantage of his kindness.
B. He successfully broke into the crofter’s house.
C. He was able to retrieve the money without being caught.
D. He intended it as payback for being mistreated by society.
4. Complete the following appropriately:
In the line, :” He realised, of course, that at first he dared not continue on the public highway…..”,
the writer’s use of “ of course” implies that ________________.
5. State whether TRUE or FALS.
The rattrap peddler’s experience of being lost in the forest can be compared to a situation where
a person is struggling to find their way in life.
6. Supply the reason for the opinion that, the reader can imagine the experience of being lost in
the woods.

Stand-alone MCQs
1. “Left to his own meditations”, one day the peddler fell into “a line of thought,
which really seemed to him entertaining”. What does the peddler’s
conception of the world as a rattrap, signify about him?

a) The peddler had a lot of time on his hands, with nothing much to do.
b) The peddler was a reflective man whose wisdom did not depend on his status.
c) The peddler was a lonely vagrant trying to make sense of his fortunes.
d) The peddler was a rattrap seller, and his work deeply inspired him.

2. “Yes, that was a fine fellow you let into the house,” said her father
What light does the given line throw on the ironmaster as a father?
a) The ironmaster was disapproving of Edla’s decision to let the peddler stay.
b) The ironmaster blamed his daughter for harbouring a criminal at home.
c) The ironmaster was being playful with Edla, and supported her decisions.
d) The ironmaster loved Edla but thought her to be too naïve and idealistic

3. Though the reader does not meet Captain von Stahle in person, they encounter the captain
symbolically. How?
a) The ironmaster misidentifies the peddler as his old friend, the Captain and invites him home.
b) The reader realizes the peddler is actually Captain von Stahle when he signs off the letter.
c) Edla attends to the peddler as respectfully, caringly and kindly, as she would have the Captain.
d) The peddler accepts the error of his ways, and displays the qualities expected of a Captain.

III. SAQ------Answer in 30-40 words

1. How does the theme of survival become more than just a matter of physical sustenance for the
peddlar?
Answers :
At the beginning of the story, the peddler is a desperate and cynical individual, who has been
reduced to stealing to stay alive. However, through the interactions with the iron master and Edla,
he begins to feel a sense of connection and belonging to a larger community and in doing so, he
finds a new sense of purpose and hope for the future. The survival becomes more than just a matter
of physical sustenance , but a question of emotional and spiritual resilience as well.

2. Infer how the forest setting serves as a backdrop for the peddler’s emotional and physical
struggle?
Answer: (The points can be used to create the answer of 40 to 50 words only.)
The story is set in a remote and desolate forest during Christmas time, which creates a sombre and
melancholic atmosphere. The setting also reflects the peddler’s life, who has been wandering
aimlessly and struggling to survive. The harsh and unforgiving environment of the forest further
emphasises the sense of desperation and hopelessness felt by the protagonist. The gloomy and
dreary setting affects the character’s behaviour, causing him to feel isolated and vulnerable. Thus,
one can say that the setting serves as a backdrop for the peddlers , emotional and physical struggles.

3. Why is it fair to say that the story bears evidence that societal norms and values can both
constrain and inspire individuals?
Answer:
The rattrap peddler has been conditioned by poverty and a life of marginalisation to expect little
from society and so resort to petty thievery to survive. However, the actions of Edla and her father
reflect the values of a kinder, more compassionate society, and their behaviour influences the
peddler’s decision, allowing him the possibility of seeing a different path for himself. This is how the
story bears evidences that society's norms and values can both constrain and inspire individuals.

4. Edla’s character validates that respect is something that must be earned through our actions
and attitudes towards others, rather than something that can be demanded or coerced. Comment.
Answer: Edla displays, kindness and empathy towards the rattrap peddler despise his honest
intentions. She treats him with dignity, which in turn leads him to open up to her and reveal his true
identity. By treating him as a human being worthy of respect, she earns his trust and friendship
rather than trying to force him to do the right thing through intimidation or punishment. Her
character validates that respect is something that must be earned through our actions and attitudes
towards others, rather than something that can be demanded or coerced.

5. If the world is “nothing but a big rattrap” as the tramp stated in the story ‘The
Rattrap’, who might the rattrap peddler be? Discuss

6. Despite his philosophical insights, the vagabond fails to resist temptations.

What would you attribute this to? Explain with reference to any instance from the text.

7. Do you think the story reinforces a stereotype that women are more trusting,
forgiving and less practical than men? Comment with reference to Edla’s
actions in the story.

8. What might be the significance of setting the story’s events during Christmas? Justify your
opinion.

IV. LAQ-------Answer in 120-150 words:

1. Rationalise why the peddler’s musings about the world as a rattrap and all the baited people,
were a “cherished pastime” for him?
Answer: ( Select the content points, You would like to use to create the answer of 120 to 150
words.)
The peddler has a life that is dull. And slow moving with no permanent and occupation to occupy his
time. He spends much of his life on the road travelling from one place to another, and as a result, he
has a lot of time on his hands. This free time leads him to ponder the philosophical questions of the
world and come up with his own musings.
For the peddler, these musings about the world as a rattrap and all the baited people are a
cherished pastime because they keep him waiting, entertained and provide a respite from the
dreary existence of his life. He enjoys reflecting on the world and drawing connections between his
experiences and the world at large.
Moreover, the peddlers musings about the world as rattrap and the baited people are an outlet for
his own frustrations. Like the baited people, the peddler feels trapped in his own life, with no escape
from his current circumstances. By reflecting on the world as a rattrap, the peddler can explore his
own feelings of being trapped and find some comfort in knowing that he is not alone in his struggles.

To conclude, the peddler's musings about the world as a rattrap and all the baited, people are a
cherished past time because they provide him with a source of entertainment and a way to explore
his own frustrations with his life. They offer him a respite from the dullness of his existence and a
chance to reflect on the world around him.

2. Imagine that you are the chief valet of the iron master’s household and privy to all the goings-
on with regards to the peddler. You were forced to rethink your prejudices about the peddler from
when you initially encountered him to the time when he handed a letter and package and left the
manor.
Write a diary entry as the chief valet recounting your feelings and making a resolution for yourself.
You may begin like this:
25 December 2024 10:00pm
Prejudices lead us to assume when I initially met the stranger. I…..
You may end like this:
I am glad that I had the opportunity to re-evaluate my views about him and learn from my mistake.
Answer:
25 December 2024 10:00 pm
Prejudices lead us to assume, when I initially met the stranger, I considered him a charity case,
adopted by our Miss. I felt that he was taking advantage of a kindness and I couldn't help but view
him with suspicion thinking of him as a common thief. My mistrust of him was evident and I know I
treated him with contempt.

However, based on his days at the manor, I saw that he was not the opportunist. I had assumed on
Christmas Eve, he received warmth and gifts from the iron master and the Miss and I thought that he
was taking advantage of the situation, like how anyone would. But my opinion of him changed, when
he left empty handed himself, leaving behind a letter and a package for the young Miss.

I did get a chance to know about the contents of the letter and the package, and the heartfelt
expression of gratitude for the kindness shown to him made me realise that he was not the cunning
trickster I had assumed him to be. He was just a man who had fallen on hard times and he was
trying to make his way in the world.

My New Year resolution will be based on the realisation of the dangers of prejudice. This experience
has made me more aware of my own biases and has taught me to be more open-minded and
compassionate towards others. I'm glad that I had the opportunity to re-evaluate my views about
him and learn from my mistake.
3. How would you compare the peddler’s actions in relation to the crofter and Edla?
Would you say kindness does not always beget kindness, and that the conditions for receiving
kindness are important for it to truly transform people? Elaborate.
Provide relevant textual details to support the analysis.

4. Imagine that you overheard the following snippet of an interaction between the valet and the
housekeeper at the ironmaster’s mansion at the end of the story.

 Speaker 1 - Trust is a difficult choice, which may or may not be rewarded.

 Speaker 2 – Yes, indeed. Ms. Willmansson really believed in that fellow, didn’t she? And he
didn’t disappoint. She was so happy reading his letter, oh her tears of joys filled my heart
with so much admiration for her. Such a kind, wonderful young lady.

 Speaker 1 – Absolutely. But I wonder, what if that vagabond had run away with the silver
spoons? Would you speak so glowingly of Ms. Willmansson then. Our master’s daughter
was a bit too gullible. Wouldn’t you say?

 Speaker 2 – But she did what was right. That must count for something. It’s Christmas, and
she helped that poor man. It didn’t matter what he did. Surely, the choice of right and
wrong does not depend on the outcome.

 Speaker 1 – Wouldn’t it? I should jolly well think so.

How would you respond to the questions raised in this conversation in relation to the story? Write
your response in the form of an entry in your daily journal.