dared to think of kissing her" (29). As a cold, isolated, and grim figure, Zeena embodies her surrounding. She creates a loveless, desolate home for Ethan where he never learns to express his love and affection. When the moment to manifest his passion to Mattie in the form of the kiss arrives, he becomes nervous, and shies out like a scared lamb. Even more, Ethan lacks the confidence and courage to stand up for himself against Zeena, who manipulates Ethan and uses her frail health to justify her bitter personality. When Zeena returns from her visit to the doctor, Ethan cautiously greets her as she sits in the darkened bedroom. She coldly informs him that her illness is worse than he thinks a
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