The West, also known as the "frontier", is a place of wealth, adventure, opportunity, and untrammeled individualism (The Unfinished Nation, 429). To Rachel Calof the west was a place of horror, and rugged-individualism, but also growth, and new beginnings. She conquered many fears, and went through many harsh times, while managing to raise and provide for a family.
Rachel Calof is a woman of many virtues; born in Russia in 1876, she has two brothers and one sister. Throughout most of her life she takes care of her family both physically and mentally. Rachel is an extremely self-sufficient girl, and this is seen in many ways throughout the novel. When in her teens, Rachel is sent to live with her Grandfather in Chvedkifka, Russia. …
