Ethan Frome Chapter 1 Summary

Ethan Frome is a novel written by Edith Wharton that explores the tragic life of a man named Ethan Frome in the fictional town of Starkfield, Massachusetts. The story is narrated by an engineer who is seeing Ethan Frome for the first time and is intrigued by his mysterious and gloomy appearance. The chapter begins with the engineer arriving in Starkfield and seeing the old and worn-out surroundings. He is told that Ethan Frome is the man in town who has had the most tragedies.

Image: Ethan Frome, Chapter 1

As the narrator approaches Ethan Frome's house, he notices the oppressive atmosphere surrounding it. The house is small and dilapidated, with snow piling up against its sides. Inside the house, the narrator is introduced to Ethan's wife, Zeena, who is described as a sickly and bitter woman. The narrator also observes Mattie Silver, Zeena's cousin, who is a young and lively girl.

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The chapter progresses with the narrator getting to know Ethan Frome better. He discovers that Ethan had once worked in the city but had to return to Starkfield to take care of his ill mother. After his mother's death, Ethan married Zeena out of a sense of duty. However, their marriage is portrayed as loveless and joyless.

Ethan's life takes a turn when his young cousin Mattie comes to live with them. Mattie brings a breath of fresh air into Ethan's world, and he develops feelings for her. The narrative reveals glimpses of their growing attraction, such as Ethan complimenting Mattie on her appearance and their shared laughter.

As the snowstorm approaches, the tone of the chapter becomes more ominous. Ethan is worried about how Zeena will react to his feelings for Mattie, and he considers the possibility of escaping with Mattie to a place far away. However, his hopes are shattered when Zeena announces that she has found a new doctor who might be able to help her with her illness.

The chapter ends on a melancholic note, with Ethan realizing that his dreams of happiness with Mattie are slipping away. He is trapped in a loveless marriage with a sickly wife and is unable to break free from his responsibilities. The narrator leaves Starkfield with a sense of sadness and sympathy for Ethan Frome.

FAQs about Ethan Frome Chapter 1

1. Who is the author of Ethan Frome?

Ethan Frome is written by Edith Wharton, an American novelist, short story writer, and designer.

2. Where does Ethan Frome take place?

Ethan Frome is set in the fictional town of Starkfield, Massachusetts.

3. What is the main theme of Ethan Frome?

The main themes of Ethan Frome include isolation, duty, and the power of fate in shaping people's lives.

Ethan Frome Zeena Quotes. QuotesGram

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