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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. Zeena does not want to move from Starkfield because ________________________________________.

2. Most of the story takes place during which season?

3. While Ethan warms himself by the stove, Mattie _______________________.

4. Ethan claims he needs to collect money from Mr. Hale because ____________________________________.

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

Short Essay Questions

1. Why is Mattie upset to learn that the Fromes expect her to leave them someday?

2. Why does Ethan give up on the hope of money from Andrew Hale?

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

4. What images might foreshadow trouble or death in the chapter?

5. If winter has kept him "frozen" in the same old patterns, what might the coming spring promise for Ethan Frome?

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

7. Why does Ethan find Zeena's silences unsettling?

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

9. What was Ethan doing before he returned to Starkfield?

10. Why did Ethan find it easier to put his arm around Mattie when they were outside together than when they are in his home?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider Zeena's sickness in the novel as symbolic of her personality or intentions. Write an essay in which you consider the symbolic meaning of Zeena's sickness in the novel, and discuss its significance to the theme of the novel.

Essay Topic 2

Consider the characters of Denis Eady, Jotham Powell, and Andrew Hale. How has each of these male characters helped or harmed Ethan in his plans to find happiness with Mattie? Write an essay in which you describe each of these male characters' influence on Ethan Frome's actions in the text.

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.

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