Ethan Frome Analysis
One of the most striking scenes in Edith Wharton’s novella, Ethan Frome, is the depiction of the would-be romantic evening that Ethan has with his wife’s cousin, Mattie. At this point in the novel it is clear that Ethan has feelings for Mattie and is unsure if she feels the same way.
However, the overtly sexual dinner of “fresh doughnuts… and pickles” (34) prepared by Mattie gives the impression that he is not alone in his feelings. Not only did Mattie prepare a meal for the pair to have together, but she also took down a prized dish that Zeena “never meant to be used.”(35) one would assume to impress Ethan during their meal. The two spend the dinner making uncomfortable conversation until the cat knocks down and breaks the “dish of gay red
However, the overtly sexual dinner of “fresh doughnuts… and pickles” (34) prepared by Mattie gives the impression that he is not alone in his feelings. Not only did Mattie prepare a meal for the pair to have together, but she also took down a prized dish that Zeena “never meant to be used.”(35) one would assume to impress Ethan during their meal. The two spend the dinner making uncomfortable conversation until the cat knocks down and breaks the “dish of gay red