Ethan Frome, Chapter 2 summary
Chapter 2 of 10 · 13 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 2, Ethan watches Mattie refuse Denis Eady’s ride and walks her home, taking comfort in her reluctance to leave his household. Their growing closeness feeds his dreams of keeping her beside him, but Zeena’s unexpected appearance at the door brings him back to his marriage.
What happens
- Ethan hides outside the hall and watches Mattie reject Denis Eady’s offer of a ride.
- Ethan joins Mattie, and they discuss sledding and the dangerous elm near the bottom of the slope.
- His jealous questions make Mattie fear that Zeena wants her to leave, and her distress reassures him.
- As they approach home, Ethan embraces Mattie and imagines sharing a permanent life with her.
- The missing door key interrupts their closeness, and Zeena opens the door with a lamp.
- Ethan tries to remain downstairs, but after an apparent warning glance from Mattie, he follows Zeena to their bedroom.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Mattie answers Ethan’s question about leaving. Her words reveal her lack of alternatives, even as her tone encourages his hopes of affection.
Quick check
Why does Ethan initially say he wants to remain downstairs?
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