Symbolism And Literary Techniques In Ethan Frome By Edith Wharton

Step into the chilling world of Edith Wharton’s book, Ethan Frome! Where pretty much every snowflake represents the frigid life of Ethan Frome. There’s also a unique use of symbolism and literary techniques which is used to create a mysterious and eerie feeling of despair and suffrage. Ethan Frome is also set in Starkfield, which over time gives the reader an exposure to the idea of human suffrage. Edith Wharton implements a unique use of symbolism, narrative structure, and special literary techniques to craft such a tragic story read by millions of readers across the world.
A good use of symbolism and imagery can make or break the story; Which is why
Wharton uses symbolism and winter imagery to display the dark and eerie vibe of Starkfield,

Then, when it comes to the big “smash up”, Ethan gets hurt pretty badly which symbolizes the almost irreversible consequence of him trying to escape his own sour circumstances. After the accident, the sled gets broken which is quite important because it shows Ethan’s dreams shattering right in front of him. Generally, the symbolism in Ethan Frome resonates throughout the entire novel, amplifying the themes of loneliness, regret, and mighty power of shattered desires. Wharton employs an incredibly unique narrative technique to enhance the tragic aspect of Ethan Frome’s lifestyle. The story instantly starts off strange with a narration from a very curious unknown visitor in Starkfield. This strange narration creates a mysterious atmosphere which stays consistent throughout the book. Wharton’s use of a curiously reserved narrator creates just enough suspense and distance to guide the reader through the perspective of an outsider. This type of first person narration allows for a more up close and personal look at
Ethan’s inner thoughts, emotions and struggles. Along with that, flashbacks can also serve a very important role in the narrative structure, which contributes to the overall understanding

Human suffrage typically refers to the right to vote along with being able to participate in certain things. But in this context, human suffrage should be understood as the ability to pursue one’s own interests and desires. The characters in Ethan Frome are basically trapped by the circumstances that they have to face. Zeena is depicted as a victim of this type of suffrage. She is considered a hypochondriac, sadly confined to a life of illness. Her physical and emotional limitations restrict her ability to totally engage in the world and experience new things. Mattie
Silver, the young and enthusiastic cousin that comes to live with Ethan and Zeena, also endures suffrage. She's basically stuck in a loveless marriage with a husband who she does not love.
She represents a yearning for freedom which recurs many times throughout the story, but she ultimately doesn’t get an opportunity to actually break free from her odd circumstances.
Edith Wharton’s novel, Ethan Frome, intertwines symbolism, narrative structure, and the theme of suffrage to create a powerful understanding of human existence. Through the effective use of symbols such as the broken sled and the winter landscape, Wharton conveys