Themes
One of the major themes in Ethan Frome was being forced to live by society's rules. No matter which direction Ethan Frome chose, he was going to be criticized for the decision. If he stayed with his wife, he would be criticized for being unhappy and staying in an unhealthy relationship. If he was to divorce his wife, he would be criticized and accused of cheating on his wife, Zeena. Also, if Ethan was to divorce his wife for Mattie, he would be looked down on for going through a divorce in a time where divorce was completely unacceptable but marrying a cousin is acceptable.
"All his life was lived in the sight and sound of Mattie Silver, and he could no longer conceive of its being otherwise." (pg. 27)
Mattie Silver
Mattie Silver is described as being smart but forgetful. She is also described as being very outgoing, happy, and young. She keeps Ethan Frome's constant attention.
"The grils was mire than the bright serviceable creature he had thought her. She had an eye to see and an ear to hear: he could show her things and tell her things, and taste the bliss of feeling that all he imparted left long reverberations and echoes he could wake at will." (pg. 24)
Ethan Frome
Ethan Frome is a very mysterious, man who is in love with Mattie Silver, but married to his wife, Zeena. The narrator describes Ethan as looking like "he is dead and in hell." Although, Ethan does not have a lot of courage. He is not brave enough to stand up to his wife and tell him that he is in love Mattie. He also does not have the courage to divorce his wife for Mattie.
"There was something bleak and unapproachable in his face, and he was so stiffened and grizzled that I took him for an old man and was surprised to hear that he wa not more than fifty-two" (pg. 11)
I just want to go home, man.
