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Ethan Frome Discussion Questions
3rd Quarter Journal #1 • ½ page: A new student comes to Mira Costa and happens to have several classes with you. Rather than talk to you directly, they ask fellow classmates what you’re like as a person because they find you mysterious and intriguing. What do the classmates tell the new student about you?
Discussion Questions: Prologue • Describe Ethan Frome as he is first seen by the narrator. How does this description create interest in his character?
Discussion Questions: Prologue • What metaphors does the narrator use to describe winter in Starkfield? How does this contribute to the tone and setting?
Discussion Questions: Prologue • Why has Ethan remained in Starkfield? What more are we able to learn about Ethan during the narrator’s daily rides with him?
Discussion Questions: Prologue • Why is Wharton’s story and style so simple and stark? Why is her use of the narrator justified?
Discussion Questions: Prologue • Describe Ethan Frome’s house as seen by the narrator. What insight does it give us into the setting and the characters?
Vocabulary words to know: • Taciturn- quiet; not talkative • Preclude- prevent; exclude • Reticent-restrained; reserved; reluctant • Innocuous- harmless; having no adverse effect • Querulous- complaining; expressing grievance