Podcast
Questions and Answers
After the 'smash-up,' who cares for Mattie and Ethan?
After the 'smash-up,' who cares for Mattie and Ethan?
Zeena
When Ethan decides to run away with Mattie, from whom is he expecting to get payment for a ship of lumber?
When Ethan decides to run away with Mattie, from whom is he expecting to get payment for a ship of lumber?
Andrew Hale
Who drives Zeena to the station?
Who drives Zeena to the station?
Jotham Powell
Who is the wealthy Irish grocer who has a crush on Mattie?
Who is the wealthy Irish grocer who has a crush on Mattie?
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Who says the following: 'She needn't know anything about it if you keep quiet.'?
Who says the following: 'She needn't know anything about it if you keep quiet.'?
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Who says the following: 'Perhaps if it hadn't been winter, things would have been different'?
Who says the following: 'Perhaps if it hadn't been winter, things would have been different'?
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Why does Zeena go to Bettsbridge?
Why does Zeena go to Bettsbridge?
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Who wrote Ethan a note telling him not to trouble himself with the situation?
Who wrote Ethan a note telling him not to trouble himself with the situation?
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Ethan lays down on the sofa and feels something poking his cheek. What is it?
Ethan lays down on the sofa and feels something poking his cheek. What is it?
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Ethan considers rebelling against Zeena, violating the rules of society, by doing what?
Ethan considers rebelling against Zeena, violating the rules of society, by doing what?
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Who is going to pick up Mattie's trunk and take it to the train station?
Who is going to pick up Mattie's trunk and take it to the train station?
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Ethan defies Zeena and refuses to allow Jotham to drive Mattie to the train station, insisting what?
Ethan defies Zeena and refuses to allow Jotham to drive Mattie to the train station, insisting what?
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How do Ethan and Mattie try to commit suicide?
How do Ethan and Mattie try to commit suicide?
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As they start down the hill and approach the elm tree, Ethan has an ugly vision of what?
As they start down the hill and approach the elm tree, Ethan has an ugly vision of what?
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When Ethan and The Narrator enter the Frome, the tall woman gets up from her chair to prepare supper and the other woman remains in her chair. Why?
When Ethan and The Narrator enter the Frome, the tall woman gets up from her chair to prepare supper and the other woman remains in her chair. Why?
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Who is the paralyzed woman?
Who is the paralyzed woman?
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Mrs. Hale relates that after Ethan and Mattie collided with the elm tree, Mattie was taken where?
Mrs. Hale relates that after Ethan and Mattie collided with the elm tree, Mattie was taken where?
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Study Notes
Characters and Relationships
- Zeena cares for both Mattie and Ethan after the "smash-up."
- Andrew Hale is the character from whom Ethan expects payment for lumber to facilitate his plan to run away with Mattie.
- Jotham Powell drives Zeena to the station, highlighting his role in their lives.
- Denis Eady, a wealthy Irish grocer, has romantic feelings for Mattie, creating tension in the story.
Key Events and Actions
- Ethan expresses a desire to run away with Mattie, contemplating the implications of divorcing Zeena to do so.
- Zeena visits Dr. Buck in Bettsbridge, indicating her ongoing health concerns.
- Mattie sends a note to Ethan advising him not to trouble himself over their situation, showcasing her independence.
Symbolism and Imagery
- Ethan finds a cushion made for him by Zeena, which symbolizes his trapped existence and emotional state.
- The act of sledding into the elm tree by Ethan and Mattie represents their desperate attempt to escape their harsh realities.
Consequences and Outcomes
- Ethan's internal conflict culminates when he and Mattie attempt suicide by colliding with the elm tree, illustrating the depth of their despair.
- After the tragic event, the story reveals that Mattie is now paralyzed, showcasing the long-lasting effects of their choices.
Narration and Perception
- The narrator's visit to the Frome house reveals the isolation of Ethan and the characters’ limited social interactions, as noted by Mrs. Hale’s surprise at his visit.
- The presence of the paralyzed woman, Mattie, in contrast to the activity of other characters reinforces themes of suffering and stagnation in their lives.
Studying That Suits You
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Description
Test your knowledge of the latter chapters of 'Ethan Frome'. This quiz covers key characters, plot points, and significant events from chapters 8 to the end. Perfect for those studying or revisiting the classic novella.
