In novels, such as Edith Wharton’s Ethan Frome, imagery and theme play a large role in developing the novel and bringing it to the status of a ‘Classic.’ An author’s use of imagery gives the reader an idea of the novel’s characters and setting. It helps to advance the reader’s understanding of the novel and its theme. The theme of a novel is also an important aspect that one must consider in order to have a clear understanding of the purpose, or central idea of the novel. Edith Wharton employs both positive and negative images of Starkfield and its inhabitants to enhance the