Ethan Frome, Chapter 6 summary
Chapter 6 of 10 · 7 min to read the chapter
In Chapter 6, Ethan tries to buy glue and repair the broken pickle dish before Zenobia returns, but icy roads, an injured horse, and shopping delays slow him down. He reaches home with the glue only to find her already upstairs, while Jotham’s refusal to stay for supper deepens his unease.
What happens
- At breakfast, Ethan hides his happiness about the evening with Mattie and arranges for Jotham to collect Zenobia.
- An injured horse and slippery logs delay the work, preventing Ethan from buying glue before dinner.
- After delivering the lumber, Ethan searches two stores and finally buys glue from Mrs. Homan.
- Ethan rushes home, but Mattie tells him that Zeena has already arrived and gone upstairs without speaking.
- Jotham refuses supper, unsettling Ethan, who returns to a warm kitchen where Mattie prepares the meal.
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In this chapter
What to notice
Ethan and Mattie react with shared alarm to Zeena’s return. Their fear interrupts his excitement about repairing the dish.
Quick check
Why does Ethan mistakenly think Zeena has not arrived home?
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