Why Did Edla Have Doubts About the Peddler?

A Close Examination of the Peddler's Uncertainties in Selma Lagerlöf's "The Wonderful Adventures of Nils"

In Selma Lagerlöf's classic children's novel, "The Wonderful Adventures of Nils," a young boy named Nils Holgersson embarks on an extraordinary journey with a flock of wild geese, guided by the wise and enigmatic peddler. However, Edla, a middle-aged woman, harbors doubts and suspicions about the peddler's identity and motives. This article delves into the reasons behind Edla's skepticism towards the peddler, exploring the clues and hints that contribute to her unease.

Unpredictable Behavior: A Source of Perplexity

One of the primary reasons for Edla's reservations towards the peddler is his unpredictable and enigmatic behavior. He often appears and disappears mysteriously, leaving Edla and others bewildered and questioning his intentions. His actions seem impulsive and driven by an unknown force, creating an aura of uncertainty around him.

The Mystical Bird and the Guardian Spirit

Edla's suspicions are further fueled by the peddler's association with a mysterious bird, which appears to serve as his guardian spirit. The bird's presence adds an air of magic and otherworldliness to the peddler, making his motives and origins even more questionable in Edla's eyes.

Hidden Identity: The Elusive Past

The peddler's reluctance to disclose his true identity or past further contributes to Edla's doubts. He remains tight-lipped about his personal history, creating a sense of secrecy and ambiguity. This secretive nature makes it difficult for Edla to trust him fully, as she wonders about the reasons behind his reluctance to reveal his true self.

Questionable Intentions: Seeking Personal Gain?

Edla's skepticism is heightened by her belief that the peddler may be driven by selfish motives. She suspects that he seeks to exploit Nils for his own personal gain or that he may be using Nils for some unknown purpose. This distrust stems from the peddler's enigmatic demeanor and his unwillingness to provide clear explanations for his actions.

Lack of Conventional Wisdom: A Challenge to Norms

Edla's doubts about the peddler are also rooted in his unconventional lifestyle and his challenge to traditional norms. His unconventional wisdom and disregard for societal expectations make him an outsider in the eyes of Edla and others. Edla struggles to reconcile her conventional worldview with the peddler's unconventional ways, leading to further skepticism and mistrust.

Conclusion: Unraveling the Puzzle of the Peddler

Edla's doubts about the peddler reflect her struggle to understand the unknown and the enigmatic. The peddler's unpredictable behavior, hidden identity, questionable intentions, and unconventional lifestyle create a complex puzzle for Edla to solve. As the story unfolds, Edla's doubts are gradually alleviated as she gains a deeper understanding of the peddler's true nature and his ultimate purpose in guiding Nils on his transformative journey.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What specific instances in the story contribute to Edla's doubts about the peddler?

2. How does the peddler's association with the mystical bird influence Edla's perceptions of him?

3. In what ways does the peddler's secretive nature heighten Edla's suspicions?

4. Why does Edla believe that the peddler may be driven by selfish motives?

5. How does the peddler's challenge to conventional norms contribute to Edla's skepticism towards him?