Class 12 English Flamingo The Rattrap (short answer)

 

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 English

Flamingo

The Rattrap

(Selma Lagerlof)

Short Answer type Questions

Q1. From where did the peddler get the idea of the world being a rattrap?

Ans: The peddler pondered his rattraps when a sudden realization dawned on him: the entire world resembled a colossal rattrap, designed to lure people with various temptations. Much like the rattrap enticed with cheese and pork, the world presented riches, joys, shelter, food, warmth, and clothing. However, once someone succumbed to the allure and reached for the bait, the trap closed in, bringing an abrupt end to everything.

Q2. Why did crofter show the thirty kronor to the peddler?

Ans: The farmer had informed the peddler that he had earned thirty kronor by selling his cow's milk to the creamery. The peddler appeared skeptical, prompting the farmer to demonstrate the proof of his claim by displaying the thirty kronor to the peddler.

Q3. What made the peddler think that he had indeed fallen into a rattrap?

Ans: The peddler realized that he must not walk on the public highway with the stolen money in his pocket. He went into the woods. He peddler opted for the woods. As he continued through the seemingly endless forest, the realization dawned on him that he had unwittingly fallen into a trap – ensnared by the lure, he had allowed himself to be deceived and captured.

Q4. Why did the ironmaster speak kindly to the peddler and invite him home?

Ans: The ironmaster walked closely up to the peddler. In the dim reflection from the furnace, he mistook the man as his old regimental comrade, Captain Von Stahle. The ironmaster warmly addressed the stranger, extending a kind invitation to accompany him home.

Q5. Why did the peddler decline the invitation?

Ans: The peddler knew that the ironmaster had mistaken him for his old regimental comrade. Secondly, he had stolen thirty kronor. Going to the ironmaster’s residence would be risky. He knew very well that he could not hide his identity for long.So, he declined the invitation.

Q6. What made the peddler accept Edla Willmansson’s invitation?

Ans: Miss Edla Willmansson regarded the peddler with genuine compassion, perceiving his fear. Reassuring him, she guaranteed his freedom to depart as easily as he arrived. Inviting him to stay for Christmas Eve, she conveyed her request with a friendly manner, instilling confidence in the peddler and prompting him to accept her gracious invitation.

Q7. When did the ironmaster realise his mistake?

Ans: Next morning, the stranger was cleaned and well-dressed. The valet had bathed him, cut his hair and shaved him. He was led to the dining room for breakfast. Guided to the breakfast table, he was now visible in the full light of day. In this clarity, the ironmaster couldn't mistake him for an old acquaintance any longer. It was at this point that the ironmaster recognized his error.

Q8. Why did Edla still entertain the peddler even after she knew the truth about him?

Ans: Edla believed it was not right to expel a person they had invited into their home, especially after promising him Christmas warmth. Understanding the hardships of the peddler's life, she desired to offer him a day of tranquility in her house. Therefore, even upon learning the truth about him, she continued to extend hospitality to the peddler.

Q9. Why was Edla happy to see the gift left by the peddler?

Ans: Upon opening the gift package, Edla immediately discovered its contents: a small rattrap accompanied by three crumpled ten kronor notes and a letter specifically addressed to her. The peddler intended to reciprocate the kindness Edla had shown him throughout the day. He wished to prevent her from facing embarrassment during the Christmas season due to the actions of a thief.

Q10.Why did the peddler sign himself as Captain von Stahle?

Ans: The ironmaster had invited the peddler to his house mistaking him for Captain von Stahle. He was welcomed there and looked after as captain. Despite the revelation of the peddler's true identity, he continued to be welcomed and treated as the captain The peddler got a chance to redeem himself from dishonest ways by acting as an honourable Captain.

Q11. What made the peddler finally change his ways?

Ans: Edla Willmansson displayed kindness and friendliness towards the peddler, treating him with warmth and compassion. She intervened on his behalf when her father considered dismissing him. Even after learning the truth about him, she continued to extend hospitality. Edla went on to offer the peddler a suit as a Christmas present and invited him to spend the following Christmas with them. Her love and understanding awakened the innate goodness in the peddler, ultimately leading to a positive transformation in his ways.