ABrandalise-Zeena's and Mattie's characterization

The name Zenobia represents her power in the house, indeed the word comes from the Greek language, Zeno plus bios. Zeno is the Greek spelling for Zeus, and bios refers to life. However Zenobia is an old and tradition name differently from Mattie which has a sweet sound. So these names are linked to the way Ethan judges the women. Also the surnames are important, Zenobia’s personal surname is never quoted, while Mattie’s surname is Silver which underline her cheerful personality and the attraction she has on Ethan. This suggest us one of the most important theme of the novel: the condition of women. As a matter of fact Zeena has to submit to the husband, moreover the lack of her nubile’s surname mena you won't know anything about her family. It supposed Zeena is an orphan. The reader doesn't know important elements of Zenobia which is Zeena’s background, you don't know events was they really are but you understand the story from Ethan’s eye or point of view. Ethan judges negatively Zenobia because of the sad life the character is forced to live with her.

Zenobia is a nurse and a housewife, the same job Mattie has to do because of Zenobia’s sickness. However Mattie who was born in a rich family, she is a terrible housekeeper differently from Zeena. Because of Mattie’s attitude Ethan is attracted by her.

At the end of the novel the roles are inverted, Mattie is sick after the accident and Zeena is the nurse, symbol of the social power Zenobia has in her own house.

Whereas Mattie is a young and nice girl, Zenobia is described as ugly and older than her real age. Ethan refers to Mattie’s physical appearance , she is always linked to red color, which symbolized passion and her lively personality.

Zenobia’s actions are always linked to the house and her sickness, while Mattie’s actions are linked to partecipate to parties. Zenobia's attitude is more selfish because she feels shut in a stereotype which made her sad and jealous of Matties freedom.