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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's defeat is reflected in his ________________________________________________.

2. How does Zeena reply to Mattie's remarks?

3. What task do Ethan and Mattie carry out together?

4. Ethan's goal is to reach Starkfield ____________________________.

5. Why has Mattie's disposition changed over the years?

Short Essay Questions

1. How does Ethan's perception of Zeena change during their argument?

2. What do Ethan and Mattie wish for, rather than living apart?

3. Why does Ruth Hale believe Ethan Frome suffers so badly?

4. What is Zeena's true purpose in hiring a girl to take care of her and their home?

5. Describe Mattie as the narrator sees her.

6. Aside from Mattie, where does Ethan continue to find inspiration and beauty?

7. What prevents Jotham from staying for dinner as he usually does, and why does this bother Ethan?

8. Why is Mattie forced to move her trunk by herself until Ethan comes to help her?

9. What clues does Ethan have that Zeena's return will not be a pleasant one?

10. How is Ethan once again annoyed by Denis Eady in Chapter 6?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Consider the motifs of brokenness, sickness, and injury in Ethan Frome. Write an essay in which you explain the significance of any one of these motifs to the theme or message of the novel.

Essay Topic 2

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 3

Is Ethan Frome the hero of his own story? Considering his actions and motivations, write an essay in which you determine whether or not Ethan Frome is a heroic character.

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