Ethan Frome

“”Ethan Frome”” by Edith Wharton is a haunting tale set in the fictional town of Starkfield, Massachusetts. The story, narrated by an unnamed visitor, revolves around Ethan Frome, a man burdened by unfulfilled dreams and a loveless marriage to his sickly and demanding wife, Zeena. The arrival of Zeena’s young and vibrant cousin, Mattie Silver, brings a glimmer of hope and forbidden love into Ethan’s bleak life. As Ethan and Mattie grow closer, their desperate longing leads them to a tragic decision that changes their lives forever. Wharton masterfully explores themes of isolation, duty, and the crushing impact of societal expectations through her evocative prose and the stark, wintry setting. The novel’s compelling narrative and richly drawn characters make it a poignant and enduring piece of American literature. Edith Wharton (1862-1937) was an acclaimed American novelist, short story writer, and designer. Born into a wealthy New York family, she defied societal expectations by pursuing a literary career. Wharton’s works often explore themes of social constraints, individuality, and the complexities of human relationships. She is best known for novels such as “”The Age of Innocence,”” “”The House of Mirth,”” and “”Ethan Frome.”” Her insightful depictions of upper-class society and its discontents earned her a Pulitzer Prize and lasting literary acclaim. —- ISBN: 9798328398497