[user104658]

Originally Posted by bitontheslide

your framing it from todays perspective which just doesn't fit with the reality of that time

It fits the reality of human history, is at the heart of modern capitalism (John Locke) but goes back much further via religion. The concept that toil = worthiness has been used to the benefit of workmasters for millenia.

A desire to work hard to better oneself or progress is good. A "work ethic" is not that, it's the (false) belief that hard work is in itself a moral good and it's own reward. Who do you think that ultimately benefits? Of course it was the lords of the land - not the serfs doing the heavy lifting. And the lords dictated the religion and thus controlled the moral narrative.

Still going on to this day. "Look at my rough hands from all the work I've done - that makes me a GOOD PERSON!", exclaimed many a bitter, neglectful, violent old man.