All three of the main characters in the novel Ethan Frome bear responsibility in the tragedy. Each one made mistakes that led to the horrible accidents which should have killed Ethan and Mattie. Zeena should have acted more sweetly towards Ethan, Mattie should have not led Ethan on, and Ethan should have honored his commitment to Zeena and his marriage.
Zeena bears responsibility for the tragedy because she should have been more kind to people and to Ethan. Zeena is always complaining about everything and Ethan was trying his hardest to keep her happy. Zeena should have stopped complaining…