Ethan Frome, Summer, Bunner Sisters: Introduction by Hermione Lee

The novellas delve into the intense emotions and destructive desires of working-class individuals, contrasting sharply with the upper-class settings typical of Edith Wharton's works. Each story reveals the complexities of their lives, highlighting themes of repression and passion, and offering a poignant look at the struggles faced by those on the margins of society. Through rich character development and vivid storytelling, these narratives illuminate the human condition in a unique and compelling way.