Introduction

Abstract

Crucial in the lives of"traditional" Russian peasants were concepts of morality, honor, personal and social health, and proper ways to have fun. This is not to deny there were improper ways rampant in Russian villages. But to be improper, one still had to know what was considered proper, socially approved communal and individual behavior. Peasants living in close-knit communities of Russia and Siberia, before and after the revolution, were very aware of societal norms. Public opinion played a strong constraining role even for people in the far-flung tough frontier villages of Siberia. Social norms were nonetheless not embedded in some static genetic or"character" code. Definitions of appropriate behavior changed with place and over time. The interplay between village life and urban centers influenced the moral tone in villages and the morale of villagers. Tensions over what was"proper" or"normal" might wrack a village or a family and could land them in rural courts.