Questions and Answers
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?
Andrew Hale
Who drives Zeena to the station?
Jotham Powell
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.'?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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?
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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.
