Ethan Frome Lesson Plan

What happened to the couple that found themselves in a similar situation? Why won't their solution work for Ethan, Zeena, and Mattie? How does this connect to themes in the novella?

The man had divorced his wife and fled west with his new girl. He left the farm to his ex-wife, who sold it and started her own business. The man and his new wife fared well out west and ultimately everybody involved prospered. Ethan realizes, however, that this solution will not work for him. The farm and mill are not worth much. Zeena wouldn't receive much money from selling them and wouldn't be able to maintain the upkeep in the meantime. Additionally, Ethan has no extra savings, and if...