"The Rattrap" by Selma Lagerlöf
1:How does the story "The Rattrap" highlight the human tendency to fall into the trap of materialism
and the possibility of redemption?
"The Rattrap" by Selma Lagerlöf delves into the human tendency to be ensnared by materialistic desires
and the potential for redemption through kindness and compassion. The protagonist, a peddler,
perceives the world as a giant rattrap, which entices people with wealth and possessions only to trap
them in a cycle of greed and suffering. His cynical worldview is shaped by his experiences of poverty and
rejection, which lead him to view life as a struggle for survival.
The peddler’s encounter with the ironmaster and Edla Willmansson marks a significant turning point in
his life. The ironmaster's initial generosity is driven by mistaken identity, but it is Edla's genuine kindness
and hospitality that truly impact the peddler. Despite discovering his true identity as a thief, Edla treats
him with respect and warmth, embodying the spirit of Christmas. Her compassion offers the peddler a
glimpse of human goodness, challenging his negative perception of the world.
The story reaches its climax when the peddler decides to return the stolen money and leaves a note for
Edla, acknowledging his past misdeeds and expressing his gratitude for her kindness. This act of
returning the money signifies his moral awakening and the possibility of redemption. It suggests that
even those who have fallen into the "rattrap" of materialism can be redeemed through the
transformative power of compassion and empathy.
Selma Lagerlöf's narrative emphasizes that while the world can indeed be a rattrap, tempting individuals
with materialistic baits, it also offers opportunities for redemption. The peddler's transformation
underscores the idea that kindness and respect can lead individuals towards a path of self-realization
and moral integrity, highlighting the profound impact of human compassion.
"The Enemy" by Pearl S. Buck
Question: How does Dr. Sadao Hoki's internal conflict in "The Enemy" reflect the broader themes of
duty, humanity, and prejudice?
Answer: "The Enemy" by Pearl S. Buck presents Dr. Sadao Hoki's internal conflict as a reflection of the
broader themes of duty, humanity, and prejudice, set against the backdrop of World War II. Dr. Sadao, a
Japanese surgeon, faces a profound ethical dilemma when he discovers an injured American POW
washed ashore near his home. This situation forces him to choose between his duty to his country and
his obligations as a doctor sworn to save lives.
Dr. Sadao's internal conflict is deeply rooted in the societal prejudices and nationalistic fervor of
wartime Japan. As a patriotic citizen, he understands the risks of harboring an enemy soldier and the
potential repercussions for his family. However, his commitment to medical ethics and the Hippocratic
Oath compels him to treat the wounded man. This clash between his professional duty and national
loyalty highlights the tension between societal expectations and personal [Link] the story,
Dr. Sadao grapples with fear, guilt, and a sense of responsibility. His decision to operate on the soldier
and later ensure his safe escape demonstrates his prioritization of humanity over prejudice. Dr. Sadao’s
actions underscore the theme that true morality transcends national boundaries and societal prejudices.
His internal struggle and eventual resolution illustrate the complex nature of ethical decision-making in
times of conflict.
Pearl S. Buck uses Dr. Sadao's character to explore the capacity for compassion in the face of
dehumanizing war. His internal conflict and the choices he makes reflect the broader themes of duty to
humanity, the struggle against ingrained prejudices, and the courage to uphold ethical principles. Dr.
Sadao’s story serves as a poignant reminder of the universal values of compassion and integrity, even in
the most challenging circumstances.
Short question answer
1. Why did the peddler think the world was like a rattrap?
The peddler thought the world was like a rattrap because it offered riches and joys as bait, which
ultimately led people into trouble and suffering. He believed that just as rats are lured into traps with
cheese, people are ensnared by the material temptations of the world, which eventually lead to their
downfall.
2. How did Edla Willmansson's kindness affect the peddler?
*Edla Willmansson's kindness had a profound impact on the peddler. Her genuine hospitality and
respect made him feel valued as a human being, which led him to reflect on his life choices. Her
compassion and trust inspired him to change, prompting him to return the stolen money and leave a
note of gratitude, signifying his moral redemption.
3 What internal conflict did Dr. Sadao face upon finding the wounded American soldier?
Dr. Sadao faced a significant internal conflict between his duty to his country and his obligation as a
doctor. As a patriotic Japanese citizen during wartime, he knew that harboring an enemy soldier was
considered treasonous. However, his medical ethics and the Hippocratic Oath compelled him to save the
man's life. This conflict highlighted the tension between his professional responsibilities and national
loyalty.
4 How did Dr. Sadao ensure the American soldier's safety after treating him?
After treating the American soldier, Dr. Sadao ensured his safety by devising a plan for his escape. He
provided the soldier with a boat, food, and directions to a nearby island where he could wait for a
Korean fishing boat. Dr. Sadao’s actions demonstrated his commitment to saving the soldier’s life
despite the risks involved, prioritizing his humanitarian duty over nationalistic sentiments.
