Typically one of the more subtle parts of a novel, the setting generally serves as a framework that supports the plot and characters. In Ethan Frome, however, Edith Wharton reinvents the use of setting as an integral element of the story. She weaves the physical aspects of weather and landscape so tightly into the inner feelings of the characters that the two become almost interchangeable. The importance of dreary winter weather in Ethan Frome demonstrates Wharton's unique mode of storytelling and allows him to develop deeply complex characters. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essayAn anonymous visitor to the town of Starkfield narrates the preface and introduces the reader to Ethan Frome, the novel's main character. He describes his curiosity upon seeing the taciturn and mysterious man and decides to find out what happened to turn "Starkfield's most striking character" into "the ruin of a man" (3). From his very first meeting with Ethan, the narrator sees him through close parallels with winter weather. The narrator employs Ethan to transport him by sleigh through town each day to conduct business and observes the strange man's behavior as he navigates the icy terrain: "[Ethan] seemed a part of the mute, melancholy landscape , an embodiment of his frozen misfortune. " (14). As the narrator continues to try to gather information, he shares an offhand but meaningful remark from a townsman: "I guess [Ethan] has spent too many winters in Starkfield" (7). This comment, along with the other descriptions of Ethan in the introduction, forms the basis for Wharton's use of the setting as a metaphor for the character's inner struggles. Ethan Frome's main conflict is revealed during the journey of. Ethan's two miles through the snowy hills to escort his housekeeper, Mattie, home after a dance Ethan's romantic feelings for Mattie are revealed in the first chapter although Ethan is married, illness and; his wife's general unpleasantness leads Ethan to view her more as an obstacle between him and the beautiful and slight Mattie than as a beloved wife. Wharton illustrates the contrast in Ethan's feelings towards the two women largely through. references to the decor. As Ethan returns home with his niece, the narrator reveals Ethan's great appreciation for natural beauty. Mattie seems to inflame her senses: There were other sensations, less definable but more exquisite, that brought [Ethan and Mattie] together in a shock of silent joy: the cold red of the sunset behind the winter hills, the flight of clouds on the slopes. golden thatch, or the intensely blue shadows of hemlocks on sunlit snow (34). The powerful images in this passage reflect Ethan's passionate feelings toward Mattie; he sees her as a pure spark of youth, full of promise and beauty. His desire for her spreads from his own mind to color his surroundings. But as soon as the two return home, the mood changes drastically. Zeena, Ethan's wife, greets them at the door, appearing bony and witchy beneath the shadows. Ethan and Mattie enter the house, which has "the deadly cold of a vault after the dry cold of the night" (53). Zeena's last words to her husband before retiring for the night seal the polarization between her and her niece: "You could 'shake' that snow outside" (53). With this offhand comment, Zeena quickly kills the magic of the night; she fails to recognize snow as a thing of beauty and instead regards it as a.