Question

In this unit, you read excerpts from naturalist and realist literary works. One such work is the novel Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton. As you read the story, write about the topics in the table. The information you add to the table will help you complete Task 2. As you enter information in the table, consider the following questions:

How do literary elements and rhetorical devices, such as foreshadowing, imagery, and symbolism affect your understanding of the story?
Where do you notice the theme of naturalism?
How does the author develop the characters in the story?

Prologue–Chapter 2
While reading, think about…
setting
foreshadowing
theme of naturalism

Chapters 3–5
While reading, think about…
author’s purpose/point of view
symbolism
communication between characters

Answer 1

While reading Prologue–Chapter 2, consider the setting, foreshadowing, and the theme of naturalism. The author establishes the setting of the novel and uses foreshadowing to hint at the tragic events that will occur later in the story. The theme of naturalism is seen in the way the characters are molded by their surroundings and the external forces that shape their lives.

While reading Chapters 3–5, consider the author’s purpose/point of view, symbolism, and the communication between characters. The author uses symbolism to emphasize the themes of the novel and to further develop the characters. The communication between characters reveals the complexities of their relationships and the inner turmoil they experience.