Both in the East and in the West. I'm curious as to what is the common definition of 'success' in the recent past, say, 1900s, before World War 1. What I want to ask is, what's commonly believed by most people to be a 'successful life' back then, and how did the rich flaunt their wealth.
Was the focus more on earning enough to get by and support one's family? Did the common man had wives, or was it limited to people who are quite well-to-do? Did the rich have many wives? (I'm sure they did) How many?
Did having a family take priority over other things?
Was there great societal emphasis on money, as compared to today's world?
What is the common definition of 'success' back then? (could be money, but not just limited to that)
Today beautiful fast cars, big houses, trophy wives and so on are examples of a 'successful man'. So how did the rich people in 1900s flaunt their wealth?
I hope my question is clear enough. Feel free to correct me.
I admit I don't have much interest in the era that you're asking about, however since no one else has answered your questions I'll give you some brief background information that you can use to research answers.
The era you're referring to is most commonly known as the Gilded Age in American history. It was marked by rapid economic growth which resulted in a growing middle class, as well as what would be referred to as nouveau riche ("new rich", meaning people who were newly successful and not well-versed in the expectations and norms of the ultra-wealthy). One result of these changes was an emphasis upon conspicious consumption, which was the practice of flaunting your wealth (a practice often frowned upon by the "old rich").
In specific regard to your questions, I think you'll find that human beings change very little regardless of the era you examine. Almost all of your questions can be answered by "depends upon the person". However, in general people will get as much as they can, for as little effort as possible. However you've chosen a good era to apply your questions to, as there is quite a bit of indication that that society was asking the same exact questions about themselves as you are asking about them. Best of luck studying it.