Envy 35-44
Solomon Shapiro is a character in Envy. Olesha uses antisemitic stereotypes in describing Shapiro, which might indicate the attitude at the time surrounding Jews.
pg. 37 - Tyrolean hat
A type of German hat made of felt with a pin on the side. Looks slightly childish, which may relate to Babichev's characterization.
pg. 39 - the Palace of Labor
The Palace of Labor, first conceptualized in 1922, was never built. It would have contained libraries, workers organizations, an auditorium, a cafeteria, and other facilities for workers. Now the Moscow Hotel stands in the place it would have been built. This is one of many buildings that were never constructed, such as the Palace of the Soviets and the Pantheon of Glory. It may be relevant to the satirical nature of the book that a building that was supposed to be a symbol of Soviet ideals but was never constructed is pictured in this scene.
pg. 39 - the Kremlin
The Kremlin was the residence of both Lenin and Stalin and is located in Moscow. It is made up of many different buildings. Prior to the Soviet period, it served as the Tsar's Moscow residence.
pg. 41 - Tiepolo
Giovanni Battista Tiepolo (1696-1770) was an Italian Rococo painter, particularly emphasizing the light in Rococo art. Much of his work was religious in theme. Later in life, he moved towards more secular themes. He reached fame early on in his life, which may relate to Nikolai's desire for fame.
pg. 43 - Otto Lilienthal
Otto Lilienthal (1848-1896) is largely considered to be the first successful aviator. He was a German mechanical engineer, and died in a glider crash--this may be why Nikolai states that he "killed himself" on page 43. His work was largely based on birds/other natural phenomena of flight, and inspired the work of the Wright brothers.
