In Edith Wharton’s novel, Ethan Frome, one major critical theory revolves around the psychological aspect and the character’s thinking while the story unfolds. The novel revolves around this critical theory because the setting, actions of characters, and direction of the novel in general are all controlled by the mind of the characters. Their thinking and psychological health affects how they view their current situation and how they respond to them. This is shown in the novel as Ethan’s state of mind changes throughout the story. Ethan Frome tells the tale of a man in a miserable situation. He lives in a gloomy, bleak town. His wife doesn’t show much affection for him, and he doesn’t really show much love for her either. The novel is from the perspective of an older…show more content… Mattie soon comes out of the dance, and Ethan watches while Denis Eady tries to give her a ride home. She brushes him off and then Ethan reveals his presence. Ethan and Mattie are happy to see each other. They discuss possibly doing some sledding in the future. Neither is afraid to sled down the hill – at the bottom of which lies the deadly elm tree. The walk home is altogether lovely and romantic, but when they arrive, the house key isn't under the mat like it usually is. Soon, Zeena, looking ill and scary, comes downstairs and lets them in. She's usually in bed by this hour but she couldn't sleep. She is obviously suspicious of their behavior. The next day she announces that she will be gone overnight visiting a new doctor. Mattie and Ethan make good use of her absence and enjoy a romantic dinner for two. Unfortunately, the cat breaks Zeena's favorite dish and Ethan isn't able to locate any glue until after Zeena gets back. The first thing Zeena does when she gets home is to tell Ethan that she's kicking out Mattie. He protests, but fighting is useless. Then Zeena finds the broken pickle dish and is super upset (it had been a wedding
