Wharton uses this to reflect the warm and light feelings Ethan has for Mattie. ... The conflict does not stem from within Ethan's own heart - his feelings for Mattie never waver. ... Mattie's surname is Silver, which is also a symbol used by the author to suggest how precious she is to Ethan but also used to suggest betrayal. Silver has been connected to betrayal since the story of Judas in the bible who betrayed Jesus for 30 peace's of silver. Until the very end, we cannot even be certain that Mattie returns Ethan's feelings for her. ...

• Word Count: 1560
• Approx Pages: 6