Questions and Answers
Why is Ethan Frome going to the church social hall?
He is going there because he has to walk Mattie back from the church social.
Why did Ethan withdraw from college?
He left because his father died and there were misfortunes that came with it.
How does Ethan feel about having to walk Mattie back from the church socials?
He enjoys walking her back because he gets to spend time with her.
What is Ethan's reaction when he sees Denis Eady dancing with Mattie?
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Why has Mattie come to live with Ethan and Zeena?
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What does Ethan's remark about Mattie's presence suggest about his marriage to Zeena?
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As Ethan watches Mattie dancing, how does he feel?
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Why has Ethan begun to do more of the housework?
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How does Zeena feel about Ethan's neglect of farm work to help Mattie?
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What sign indicates Zeena's suspicions of Ethan's feelings for Mattie?
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Study Notes
Ethan Frome Chapter 1 Summary
- The story begins with a flashback of Ethan Frome, a 28-year-old married man walking to a church social hall to escort Mattie back home.
- Ethan withdrew from college after one year due to the death of his father and subsequent misfortunes that affected him.
- The setting contrasts: the outside is depicted as cold and uncomfortable, while the inside of the church during the dance is likely warm and festive.
- Ethan experiences jealousy upon seeing Mattie dance with Denis Eady, who is the son of Starkfield’s wealthy Irish grocer, Michael Eady.
- Mattie lives with Ethan and his wife, Zeena, as their housekeeper, creating a domestic scenario that complicates Ethan's emotions.
- Ethan enjoys walking Mattie home from church socials as he cherishes the time spent together.
- Ethan describes Mattie's presence as "like the lighting of a fire on a cold heart," indicating a lack of warmth in his marriage with Zeena.
- Observing Mattie's enjoyment during dancing, Ethan yearns to dance with her and wonders if she reciprocates his feelings.
- Ethan has taken on more housework to increase his chances of seeing Mattie more frequently.
- Zeena expresses displeasure at Ethan neglecting the farm work, feeling threatened by his time spent with Mattie.
- A further sign of Zeena's suspicions arises when she states, "the doctor don't want I should be left without anybody," hinting at her concerns over Ethan’s bond with Mattie.
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Description
Explore the key themes and character dynamics in Chapter 1 of 'Ethan Frome'. This chapter introduces us to Ethan's emotional struggles, his relationship with Mattie, and the contrasting settings that reflect their circumstances. Delve into how jealousy and warmth impact Ethan's complicated life.
