Symbolism plays many roles in the story of Ethan Frome. Wharton uses symbolism to reinforce the plot development of Ethan. One of Wharton’s symbols is a red ribbon. The color red is a sign of love and passion and Mattie wore the red ribbon at the dance and later at the farmhouse. The color red stands out from the crowd to Ethan which confirms his attraction Mattie.
Another important symbol is the red glass pickle-dish. The dish is Zeena’s favorite wedding present and she cares a lot about it. The red dish is a symbol for Ethan’s and Xeena’s marriage. The night Ethan and Mattie were alone and broke the dish, shows the destruction of Ethan and Xeena’s marriage. Xeena is very upset about it and blames Mattie for it even though the cat
Another important symbol is the red glass pickle-dish. The dish is Zeena’s favorite wedding present and she cares a lot about it. The red dish is a symbol for Ethan’s and Xeena’s marriage. The night Ethan and Mattie were alone and broke the dish, shows the destruction of Ethan and Xeena’s marriage. Xeena is very upset about it and blames Mattie for it even though the cat