What was the rat called that almost ended Pinocchio’s life? - briefly
The rat that threatened Pinocchio’s life was called «Mara». It appears in Collodi’s story shortly before the boy’s encounter with the Terrible Dogfish.
What was the rat called that almost ended Pinocchio’s life? - in detail
The creature that threatened Pinocchio’s life is identified in Carlo Collodi’s original narrative as «The Terrible Rat». The encounter occurs in the early chapters when the wooden boy wanders far from home and falls prey to the rat’s predatory intentions.
Key aspects of the episode:
- Setting: A desolate path leading away from the village; the rat appears suddenly, brandishing sharp teeth.
- Motivation: The rat, described as ferocious and opportunistic, seeks to devour Pinocchio for sustenance.
- Pinocchio’s response: The puppet, though inexperienced, manages to escape by leaping onto a passing carriage, leaving the rat behind.
- Narrative function: The episode illustrates the dangers awaiting an unwise child, reinforcing the moral theme of caution and obedience.
The name «The Terrible Rat» persists throughout various translations, preserving Collodi’s portrayal of the animal as a menacing antagonist in the protagonist’s early misadventures.