1980. A recurring theme in literature is the classic war between a passion and responsibility. For instance, a personal cause, a love, a desire for revenge, a determination to redress a wrong, or some other emotion or drive may conflict with moral duty. Choose a literary work in which a character confronts the demands of a private passion that conflicts with his or her responsibilities. In a well-written essay show clearly the nature of the conflict, its effects upon the character, and its significance to the work.
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Though many say that one should follow his/her heart, few give thought to what that person is giving up in the pursuit of passion. In Ethan Frome by Edith Wharton, Ethan is a man who is consumed by passion, yet bound by responsibility. This is a conflict that resonates throughout the novel. His passion to be with Mattie and his responsibility to care for Zeena causes him to make irrational choices. Ethan’s indecision demonstrates the struggle in choosing between happiness and obligation.
Body paragraph #1—Passion
Ethan feels a moral obligation to care for Zeena, but Mattie’s arrival sparks Ethan’s desire for something more, something different. In her portrayal of Mattie, Wharton often associates her with the color red, a major contrast to Starkfield’s bleak, white landscape and Zeena’s ____________________. Ethan is passionate for Mattie—for her youthful actions, and playful words. She is something new that could add life to his uneventful days. Though he loves this girl, Ethan has a responsibility to care for his ailing wife. He’s torn between staying with a stoic???? woman who views the world in a negative light or following his heart to the girl who could make him happy.
Body paragraph #2 – Responsibility
