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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. How has Mattie changed her appearance for Ethan?

2. Zeena is described as an old woman, although she is ____________________________.

3. Mattie is encouraged to enjoy evenings out because _______________________________.

4. Ethan dreads Zeena's trips to the doctor because _____________________________.

5. Ethan and Mattie discuss the marriage of ________________________.

Short Essay Questions

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

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

3. What is ironic about Mattie's greeting when Ethan arrives home?

4. Why are Ethan and Mattie continually reminded of Zeena?

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

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

7. Describe Zeena's appearance when she opens the door for Ethan and Mattie.

8. In what way does Ethan finally attempt a physical connection between himself and Mattie?

9. What is Ethan's attitude toward Denis Eady? Why?

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

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Characters in Ethan Frome are faced with the manipulation and motivations of others throughout the text. Choose the character you believe is most effected by others' manipulations and motivations, and write an essay supporting your argument. Use specific examples from the text to help support your point.

Essay Topic 2

How does the importance of duty and appearance affect the events and theme of Ethan Frome? Write an essay in which you choose three examples from the text that suggest an event or theme is affected by duty and appearance.

Essay Topic 3

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.

(see the answer keys)

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