Life has a lot to do with ones perspective on it. It is every person's perspective on life that determines how he or she handle every given situation. Ethan Frome, the main character in the novel entitled Ethan Frome, by Edith Wharton, has many complex problems occurring at the same time. His parents have died, his wife is continually sick, and the only form of happiness he has is from his wife's cousin Mattie. This, at times proves to be hard because of Ethan's wife's interference. Nothing seems to be going in Ethan's favor. Ethan, who is never sure what exactly his direction should be, makes unfulfilled decisions that ultimately make him miserable as he sees it.

It is the tragedy of Ethan Frome that these ill-fated lovers, Ethan and Mattie, are reduced to something bleak and unapproachable. A couple who are refused their chance of happiness because o

From the outset, Wharton creates warmth of feeling between readers and the character Mattie. She creates an imagery of Mattie that emphasizes all the qualities that she admires herself - love, beauty and vibrancy, portraying them in such a way that we are ourselves are led to appreciate and value them. Her innocent demeanor is magnified by the harsh circumstances of her life, and readers are left feeling pity and sympathy for the girl who has "never had anyone be good to her". Ethan finds himself falling in love with Mattie, drawn to her "youthful energy, as, the pure air, and the long summer hours in the open, give life and elasticity to her. To Ethan, Mattie is like a window that has caught the sunset; Her effect on him was likened to spring rills in a thaw." Her qualities are exemplified when contrasted against the descriptions of Zeena, whose face was drawn and bloodless, grayish, and sallow. Ethan sees in Mattie a spirit of vibrancy that is far beyond the scope of his trite life in Starkfeild, bringing a light into his dismal life.

Throughout the novel we see the relationship and the blossoming of tender emotions develop, we feel that the characters ought to fulfil their passion and we resent their reluctance to face the consequences that go hand in hand with their feelings. The scene where Zeena leaves town is perhaps the most provoking scene of the novel, as Wharton drives home the social and psychological restrictions that stop the two lovers from being together - even when they are alone. Ethan deludes himself, forgetting momentarily his entrapping circumstances, as he imagines himself married to Mattie. Wharton encourages readers to feel a solid approbation for the relationship, as the excitement and anticipation for the night ahead grows. The couple soon begins to feel the eerie presence of Zeena. The very kitchen which the night before had seemed like " a chilly vault" is described as warm and bright and ha

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Approximate Word count = 1306
Approximate Pages = 5 (250 words per page double spaced)