How does the narrator learn about Ethan Frome?

How does the narrator learn about Ethan Frome?

The narrator of Edith Wharton’s Ethan Frome comes to visit Starkfield and hears about the story of the Ethan Frome from numerous people. The narrator claims to have heard the story, “bit by bit, from various people.” Through the gossip and truths of the town, the narrator is able to construct a picture of Ethan Frome.

Why does the narrator accept a ride from Ethan?

He needs a ride because the horses are sick; Ethan begins picking him up on the road. What is the narrator able to learn about Ethan during their daily rides? He’s quiet/ taciturn, he likes science, he wanted to become an engineer. Describe the Frome house as seen by the narrator.

What information do we learn about Ethan Frome in the prologue?

The narrator learned Ethan’s age from Harmon Gow, an ex stage-coach driver who knew all the stories of all the families in the area. Harmon Gow, the town gossip, told the narrator that Ethan had looked ancient ever since an accident that occurred 24 years ago.

What details does the narrator learn about Ethan Frome and where does this information come from?

The narrator of Edith Wharton’s Ethan Frome comes to visit Starkfield and hears about the story of the Ethan Frome from numerous people. The narrator claims to have heard the story, “bit by bit, from various people.” Through the gossip and truths of the town, the narrator is able to construct a picture of Ethan Frome.

When Ethan tells the narrator that he had to take down the l What is he referring to?

Frome’s taking down the “L” is symbolic, because it connects the farmer to the land. Without it, Frome seems even more disconnected from New England life, from his land, and from his neighbors. The isolation of Frome’s farm is symbolic of his own isolation.

What does the narrator and Ethan?

Although Ethan says little as he drives the Narrator to the station, the Narrator learns that Ethan is interested in engineering, and lends him a book on popular science. The Narrator’s discovery of Ethan’s interest in engineering and science indicates that Ethan had ambitions that for some reason he never fulfilled.

What metaphor does the narrator use to describe winter in Starkfield?

Early on, the narrator uses a metaphor of a city under siege to describe Starkfield in winter, comparing the freezing, snowy weather to a besieging army, and the inhabitants of Starkfield to a “starved garrison.” This metaphor establishes the theme of how Starkfield’s icy climate oppresses human lives.

Who is the narrator in Ethan Frome?

Harmon Gow A retired stagecoach driver and resident of Starkfield. He provides The Narrator with information about Ethan Frome’s life. Mrs. Ned Hale (Ruth Varnum) A middle-aged widow.

What happened to the narrator’s science book in Ethan Frome?

What happens to the narrator’s science book? He leaves it in Ethan’s sleigh; Ethan reads it, expresses an interest in it, and accepts it on a loan.