Ethan Frome · Chapters
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Chapter companions for Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton.
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Chapter 1
Ethan Frome
The narrator introduces the bleak winter landscape of Starkfield, Massachusetts, and the enigmatic figure of Ethan Frome, a crippled and silent man whose tragic past is hinted at through local gossip and the narrator's observations.
Chapter 2
Prologue
The narrator, an unnamed engineer, arrives in Starkfield and becomes intrigued by the mysterious, physically broken figure of Ethan Frome. Through conversations with locals like Harmon Gow and Mrs. Ned Hale, he pieces together fragments of Frome's tragic past—a 'smash-up' twenty-four years earlier, a life of relentless hardship caring for his parents and wife, and a profound isolation that seems etched into his very being. The narrator eventually rides with Frome daily, observing his silent, stoic nature and glimpsing a buried intellectual curiosity, which deepens his desire to uncover the full story.
Chapter 3
I
Young Ethan Frome walks through the frozen Starkfield night toward the church dance, reflecting on his deepening bond with Mattie Silver, who lives with him and his wife Zeena. He recalls their shared walks and his joy in teaching her about nature, but at the dance he sees her dancing with Denis Eady, stirring jealousy and latent fears about Zeena's growing discontent and hints that Mattie may leave.
Chapter 4
II
After the dance, Ethan Frome hides behind the storm-door and watches Mattie Silver exit the church. He observes Denis Eady attempt to persuade Mattie to ride home with him, but she refuses and walks alone. Ethan catches up with her under the Varnum spruces, and they walk home together, sharing a tender moment. Upon arriving home, they find the kitchen key missing and are startled when Zeena opens the door, having waited up for them. Zeena's cold demeanor and the tension in the household are palpable as Ethan reluctantly follows her to bed.
Chapter 5
III
Ethan works in the wood-lot, reflecting on his marriage and Mattie's arrival in Starkfield. Zeena announces she is going to Bettsbridge to see a new doctor, leaving Ethan and Mattie alone for the night. Ethan feels relief and a growing desire for Mattie, while Zeena's silent faultfinding and Mattie's dependence on the Fromes are highlighted.
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