Ethan Frome Chapter 4 Study Guide

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Questions and Answers

What motif continues to suggest a promise of happiness or well-being for Ethan at the beginning of this chapter?

light

What gives Ethan's kitchen a 'homelike look'?

Zeena's absence

What does Ethan dream about as he travels to town?

Mattie when he gets back home

What spark in Ethan had not been completely extinguished by the Starkfield winters?

sociability Signup and view all the answers

What did Ethan miss when he returned to Starkfield from Worcester?

being hailed as 'Old Ethe' Signup and view all the answers

What did Ethan's mother tell him she was listening to?

the graves in the cemetery Signup and view all the answers

Why is Ethan initially drawn to Zeena?

She's taking care of his mother while he gets a break Signup and view all the answers

Why does Ethan enjoy Zeena's orders (at first)?

freedom Signup and view all the answers

Ethan's love of nature doesn't include which of the following?

Agriculture Signup and view all the answers

Why does Zeena want to stay in Starkfield?

So she can look down on people and so people won't look down on her Signup and view all the answers

What may be the reason Zeena became sickly?

So people would notice her Signup and view all the answers

What happened when Ethan asked Andrew Hale for money?

Hale didn't give him any Signup and view all the answers

What couple does Ethan see kissing as he walks through the trees?

Ned Hale & Ruth Varnum Signup and view all the answers

How is the pickle dish broken?

The cat knocked it off the table Signup and view all the answers

Why can't Ethan replace Zeena's pickle dish?

It was a wedding present from Zeena's aunt in Philadelphia Signup and view all the answers

How does Mattie change her appearance for Ethan?

She put a red ribbon in her hair Signup and view all the answers

Who visited Mattie while Ethan was away for the day?

Jotham Powell Signup and view all the answers

What gives Ethan the sense of mastery at the end of the chapter?

He subdued Mattie with his tone and she did what she was told to do Signup and view all the answers

What is the mood of the scene between Ethan and Mattie?

Controlling Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 4 Overview

Motif of Light: Symbolizes happiness and well-being for Ethan.
Ethan's Kitchen: Feels homely due to Zeena's absence, reflecting a sense of peace.
Dreams of Mattie: On his way to town, Ethan fantasizes about his return home to Mattie.

Ethan's Character and Background

Sparkl of Sociability: Despite harsh winters, a sense of social connection remains within Ethan.
Missing "Old Ethe": Upon returning to Starkfield from Worcester, Ethan longs for the recognition and camaraderie he once had.

Relationships and Dynamics

Ethan and Zeena: Initially drawn to her because she cared for his mother, creating a sense of dependency.
Enjoyment of Orders: Finds a paradoxical sense of freedom in obeying Zeena's commands at first.
Zeena's Motivation: Wants to remain in Starkfield partly to elevate her status over others.

Symbolism and Significant Events

Graves in the Cemetery: Ethan's mother was concerned with the graves, symbolizing mortality and looming despair.
Sickness as Attention: Zeena's ailments may be a way to garner attention from others.
Money Request from Andrew Hale: Ethan's failed attempt reveals his dire financial straits and dependence on others.

Observations and Encounters

Ned Hale and Ruth Varnum: Ethan witnesses the couple's affectionate moment, contrasting his own emotional struggles.
Broken Pickle Dish: The dish, a wedding gift, is broken by the cat, symbolizing disruption in Ethan’s life and marriage.
Replacement Issue: Ethan’s inability to replace the dish emphasizes his financial burdens and the significance of objects in relationships.

Mattie's Influence and Changes

Appearance Change: Mattie adorns herself with a red ribbon, signaling her interest in appealing to Ethan.
Visit from Jotham Powell: Highlights Mattie's social interactions in Ethan's absence.

Power Dynamics

Mastery Scene: Ethan feels a sense of control over Mattie when she complies with his commands.
Overall Mood: The dynamic between Ethan and Mattie is characterized by a controlling atmosphere, revealing complexities in their relationship.

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Description

Prepare for your study of Chapter 4 of 'Ethan Frome' with this set of flashcards. Each card highlights key motifs, character emotions, and significant details that contribute to understanding Ethan's journey. Test your knowledge and enhance your insight into the themes and symbols presented in the text.