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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. Ethan now sees the cemetery as ____________________________.

2. Why is Zeena still awake when Ethan and Mattie arrive at home?

3. While they walk home, Ethan expresses his concern that Mattie will __________________________.

4. Though Ethan's studies were brief, the author states that he became aware of

5. As he travels to town, Ethan dreams about ______________________________.

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Ethan concerned about Zeena's behavior toward himself and Mattie?

2. What concerns does Ethan Frome express about Mattie Silver throughout the chapter?

3. Describe Ethan and Zeena as they fall asleep at night.

4. What, according to Ethan, is responsible for the biggest change in Mattie since she arrived in Starkfield?

5. What is Ethan's reaction to finding Ned and Ruth Varnum kissing among the trees?

6. Why is Ethan so concerned about Zeena's behavior the previous evening?

7. What does Ethan enjoy sharing with Mattie that he cannot share with Zeena?

8. Why does Ethan mention to Mattie that he saw Ned and Ruth kissing earlier?

9. Describe Zeena Frome.

10. Why doesn't Ethan protest Zeena's costly doctor visit?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Considering the images of small town life Wharton creates in Ethan Frome, write an essay in which you argue for or against the promises and limitations of small town life exhibited in Starkfield. Use at least three characters or events as examples for your argument.

Essay Topic 2

In most of the chapters in the novel, Ethan's thoughts and actions are revealed through third person characterization. Considering the third person limited point of view, write an essay identifying Ethan Frome as either a sympathetic or an unsympathetic character, and discuss the influence of the narrator on Ethan's characterization.

Essay Topic 3

Considering the contrasting motifs of cold and warmth or light and darkness, write an essay in which you explore the significance of Wharton's motif to the theme of her novel. Use specific examples of the motifs as support for your argument.

(see the answer keys)

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