Writing an Essay Now that you've listed some important elements in the story, pick a topic from Ethan Frome. Write an essay of approximately four or five paragraphs detailing how the topic relates to your understanding of the novel as a whole. Here are some suggested topics, but you may choose your own:
Explore the idea of communication among the characters in the novel. What theme does Wharton attempt to convey through their communication? What does the pickle dish seem to symbolize in the novel? What type of tragic hero does Ethan Frome represent? Explore the differences between a classic tragic hero and a more modern tragic hero. Before you begin writing, you might want to read these general guidelines for writing and reviewing an essay. Optional Peer Review Before submitting this assignment, it may be helpful to have another person read your essay. Identify two or three specific things to look for when reviewing your work. This may include correct spelling and punctuation, or whether your ideas were clearly presented and supported with evidence from the text. Upload your essay to the Graded Activities panel on the left-hand side of the screen. Be sure to submit the assignment for grading.