Edith Wharton's Ethan Frome

Edith Wharton’s haunting classic Ethan Frome is set in a small, isolated town in Massachusetts, exploring the depths of human emotion and the profound impact of choices made in the face of societal constraints.

The story revolves around the titular character, Ethan Frome, a worn-down and introverted farmer whose life is bound by duty and responsibility. Trapped in a loveless marriage with his sickly and bitter wife, Zeena, Ethan's life takes an unexpected turn when his cousin, Mattie Silver, arrives to help with household chores. As Mattie's presence breathes new life into Ethan's monotonous existence, a powerful attraction blossoms between them.

This volume is part of the Mothers of the Macabre series, celebrating the gothic horror masterpieces of pioneering women writers who played a pivotal role in shaping and advancing the genre. Edith Wharton's masterful prose paints a vivid portrait of the harsh and unforgiving New England landscape, mirroring the emotional turmoil and restraints placed upon her characters. Ethan Frome is an essential read for fans of classic gothic horror.