In the section we read from Behind the Urals, there seems to be a recurring theme: the work was hard, but we were hardier. Take for example this passage:
We both donned army shirts, padded and quilted cotton pants, similar jackets, heavy scarves, and then ragged sheepskin coats. We thrust our feet into good Russian ‘valinkis’ – felt boots coming up to the knee. We did not eat anything. We had nothing on hand except tea and a few potatoes …” (9).
Then we follow them to the factory where conditions are hazardous. This does not seem like a great place to be or great work to have to do. Compared to the work we read about on Tuesday, which locations seems better? Neither are ideal, but which experience seems the lesser of two evils? Can we really compare the two?
