Ethan Frome, written by Edith Wharton in the early 20th century, is set in the bleak village of Starkfield, New England. The story follows Ethan Frome, who lives with his sickly wife Zeena while struggling with his feelings for her lively cousin Mattie. The narrator slowly uncovers the tragic past of Ethan through stories from the townspeople and the stark atmosphere. The novel explores the tension between desire and duty, as well as the crushing weight of isolation and sacrifice. Wharton delicately portrays the psychological struggles of a man trapped by circumstance and environment.
