How does the peddler interpret the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster and his daughter?
The peddler interprets the acts of kindness and hospitality shown by the crofter, the ironmaster, and his daughter differently in each situation. The Crofter: The peddler is initially suspicious of the crofter’s kindness. He ponders over the fact that the crofter may merely be lonely, thus causing him to be so generous with a stranger. However, his greed and cunning nature get the better of him, leading him to steal the crofter’s money. After this incident, the peddler starts believing the world is a rattrap, and everyone could be caught in it. He sees this act of kindness from the crofter as something with the potential to trap him, like bait offered by the world. The Ironmaster: When the ironmaster, mistaking the peddler for an old friend, invites him to his manor, the peddler is once again suspicious. He believes that the world is trying to bait him again, using the ironmaster’s invitation. He does not see the ironmaster’s invitation as genuine kindness since he feels it’s based on the ironmaster’s misconception of his identity, and he expects the ironmaster to turn him in once he finds out the truth. The Ironmaster’s Daughter, Edla Willmansson: The peddler’s interaction with Edla is the turning point for him. She treats him with genuine warmth and kindness, regardless of his appearance or social status. He views her non-judgmental behavior and sympathy differently compared to other instances of kindness he had received. She gives him a sense of dignity, and her act of kindness becomes transformative for him. Instead of focusing on the adversities and traps in life, the peddler now understands the power of redemption and unconditional kindness. It is her charity that enables the peddler to change his ways and return the stolen money to the crofter.