Question

Question 1: Discuss the following in groups of four. Each group can deal with one topic. Present the views of your group to the whole class. The reader’s sympathy is with the peddler right from the beginning of the story. Why is this so? Is the sympathy justified?

Class 12 - English - The Rattrap Page 43

Answer 1

Hi friend,

We the readers have sympathy for the peddler because:-

From the beginning, the rattrap seller is shown as a victim of his situation who had to resort to beggary and stealing because his business is not profitable enough to make both ends meet.

We find that he lacks friends and guide to steer him in the right path. 

Yes, this sympathy is justified because the ending of the story shows us what the true character of the peddler and also that  the peddler is capable of appreciating goodness and hospitality. He reciprocates the kindness and hospitality he received from Edla, iron master and the crofter,in the best way he can.

Hope it helps!