The story "The Rattrap" presents several instances that reveal the character of the Ironmaster, highlighting traits such as impulsiveness, pride, kindness, and a capacity for fairness, often contrasted with his daughter Edla’s more logical, kind, and thoughtful nature.
Instances Showing the Ironmaster’s Character
- Mistaken Identity and Generosity: In dim light at his forge, the Ironmaster mistakes the peddler for an old regimental comrade and invites him to his home, providing food, clothing, and shelter. This shows his impulsive nature and readiness to trust based on appearances and old memories
- Quick to Judge and Proud: When he sees the peddler clearly the next day, he calls him dishonest, demands an explanation, and threatens to call the sheriff. He also worries about his silver spoons, showing his pride and suspicion once his initial kindness is questioned
- Authoritative and Stubborn: The Ironmaster is described as a commanding figure, used to control and quick to make decisions. He is stubborn, especially when he feels strongly about something, reflecting his pride in his social status and position
- Fair-minded and Respectful of His Daughter: Despite his rashness, he listens to Edla’s more compassionate and logical perspective. He respects her decision to let the peddler stay and allows kindness to prevail, showing a fair-minded side beneath his stern exterior
Contrast with His Daughter Edla
- Logical and Kind: Edla is perceptive and gentle. She notices the peddler’s fear and suspects he might be a thief or fugitive but treats him with kindness and respect regardless. She persuades her father to allow the peddler to stay for Christmas, showing her compassionate nature
- Compassionate Influence: Edla’s kindness ultimately reforms the peddler, who returns the money he had stolen and leaves a Christmas gift. Her humane qualities contrast with her father’s initial suspicion and quick judgment
Summary of Key Differences
Trait| Ironmaster| Edla (Daughter)
---|---|---
Temperament| Impulsive, quick to judge| Logical, thoughtful, kind
Initial Reaction| Mistakes identity, then suspicious| Perceptive, gentle,
respectful
Attitude toward Peddler| Proud, authoritative, suspicious| Compassionate,
persuasive
Influence on Peddler| Strict but fair-minded eventually| Kindness leads to
peddler’s reform
These instances collectively show that the Ironmaster is a complex character- authoritative and proud but capable of fairness-while Edla embodies kindness and understanding that bring positive change
