Classic literature is considered classic because it contains very
             specific elements. One critical element literature must possess to be
             considered classic is that it be a timeless story. Classic literature
             survives because it can be enjoyed and understood by readers from any
             generation. Another element of classic literature that is crucial to its
             survival is an important theme. Classic stories survive because they have
             a moral or they observe society and make a statement about the human
             experience. Themes are very important in classic literature as well.
             Themes in classic literature are usually universal--they are stories to
             which we all can relate. Classic literature also possesses the ability to
             communicate across cultures. Based on that understanding, this paper will
             examine the qualities that make Ethan Frome, by Edith Wharton, and To Kill
             A Mockingbird, by Harper Lee, examples of classic literature.
             Ethan Frome fits this definition because it depicts the theme of human
             tragedy in the form of losing one's hopes and dreams. Ethan Frome's life
             is a reflection of his failure to succeed. Through Ethan, Wharton
             demonstrates how loneliness and hopelessness lead to a sense of depression
             that he can never overcome. His tragedy lies in the fact that he is in a
             loveless marriage to a woman who seeks only to control him. We can see how
             Ethan's hopelessness envelops him when we are told, "But hitherto the
             emotion had remained in him as silent ache, veiling with sadness the beauty
             that evoked it. He did not even know whether any one else in the world
             felt as he did, or whether any one else in the world felt as he did, or
             whether he was the sole victim of this mournful privilege" (Wharton). In
             addition, Ethan's situation is worsened when he finally realizes Zeena's
             true callous nature, and in response, we are told, "Wrath and dismay
             contended in Ethan. He had foreseen an imm...