century, and even today, the rich have believed themselves more important than the poor. When the story took place, it was common to have people divided by the amount of money that they owned, otherwise known as their 'class'. People in the upper class believed that because they were fortunate enough to have such wealth, they were also entitled to treat anyone in a lower class as if they were inferior. This was demonstrated by a character in Chekhov's short story, The Ninny.
A peasant governess was used as an example of the fear and subjective nature of the poor when confronted by the wealthy in the late nineteenth century Russia. Even after working for three months without pay, the governess is prepared to be robbed of her earnings rather than demand her rights, for in her opinion, she has no rights, and like a dog will be satisfied with whatever scraps her master is willing to throw in her direction.
This practice is outlawed today, and can be challenged by a court of law. But how many cases are still active today. How quickly will a lower class employee speak up for their rights? Maybe they are not overly employable, or live in a remote location. Are they likely to stand up for their rights? I think they would be more grateful that they have a source of income, albeit meager, and they may dislike their employer, but eating is more important that loosing everything.