Character guide

Ethan Frome

major

Also known as Frome, Young Ethan Frome

A silent, brooding farmer trapped in a loveless marriage in Starkfield.

Mattie Silver

major

Also known as Mattie, Matt

Ethan's wife's young cousin who comes to live with them, stirring deep emotions.

Zeena Frome

major

Also known as Zeena, Zenobia Frome

Ethan's hypochondriac and controlling wife, whose illness dominates the household.

Denis Eady

supporting

Also known as Eady, young Denis Eady

A young man from a wealthy family who courts Mattie Silver.

Mrs. Ned Hale

supporting

Also known as Mrs. Hale, Ned Hale

A neighbor and friend who observes the Fromes' tragic story.

Jotham Powell

supporting

Also known as Jotham

The Fromes' hired man, quiet and loyal.

Andrew Hale

supporting

Also known as Hale, Mr. Hale

A local builder and employer of Ethan Frome.

Harmon Gow

supporting

Also known as Harmon

A Starkfield resident who shares local gossip with the narrator.

Aunt Martha Pierce

minor

Also known as Aunt Martha

Mattie Silver's aunt who takes her in after the tragedy.

Ruth Varnum

minor

Also known as Varnum, Ruth

A young woman from Starkfield, briefly mentioned in social contexts.

Dr. Buck

minor

The local doctor who attends to Zeena Frome.

Michael Eady

minor

Also known as Eady

Denis Eady's father, a wealthy Irish immigrant storekeeper.

Dan'l Byrne

minor

Also known as Daniel Byrne

A local man who helps with the Fromes' farm work.

Puss

minor

The Fromes' cat, a minor presence in the household.