Ethan Frome Character Analysis

Archetypal tragic heroes are often portrayed in ancient settings with unrealistic situations. In the novella Ethan Frome, Edith Wharton, counters this opinion by crafting a tragic hero that both connects with the archetype and defies the classic setting. The novella takes place in wintery Starkfield Massachusetts, in modern times. Nevertheless, Ethan Frome fits the characteristics of an archetypal tragic hero, as he has a tragic flaw and increased awareness of his situation. Thus, many arguments claiming that Ethan is not a tragic hero can easily be countered with close analysis of Ethan Frome. Thus, Wharton proved that Frome was a tragic hero, despite being placed in a modern, American setting.
One trait of a tragic hero is having a hamartia, or tragic flaw. Ethan’s own impulsiveness, thoughtlessness, and melodramatic tendency leads him to make rash decisions. Ethan’s flaw of impulsivity leads to his tragic decline. Ethan states, “I’d take you over myself, only I’ve got to collect the cash for the lumber,” when his wife asked why he would not drive her over to her appointment (55). Ethan’s lie was purely to avoid inconvenience, but only further harms his relationship
Ethan realizes his own impulsiveness and flawed character, becomes aware of his flaws, proving that he fits the archetype of a tragic hero yet again. Ethan was going to deceive kindly Mrs. Hale into giving him money. However, he took a step back and saw his situation in a different light, saying “With the sudden perception of the point to which his madness had carried him, the madness fell and [Ethan] saw his life before him as it was.” (113). Ethan is so desperate to escape from his situation at home that he feels the need to take advantage of others. Ethan's impulsiveness persists, and he commits suicide when he is no longer able to face his dark