Final answer:
Chapter II of 'How Much Land Does A Man Need?' introduces the element of social inequality and poverty in Tolstoy's Russia, reflecting the harsh lives of peasants and the rigid social structure, but it does not directly discuss cultural traditions or political conflicts.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Chapter II of Leo Tolstoy's How Much Land Does A Man Need?, the elements of Tolstoy's Russia that are introduced predominantly revolve around social inequality and poverty. The story illustrates the life of a peasant who is enticed by the idea of acquiring more land, which serves as a critical commentary on the human tendency to want more than one needs, as well as the pitfalls of greed. As a result, the narrative also reflects the rigid social structure of Russia during Tolstoy's time, where the majority of the population, including peasants like the protagonist, suffered due to poverty and a societal system that inhibited social mobility.
Given the context provided, while the specific section may not directly address cultural traditions and customs or the detailed nuances of political conflicts and power dynamics, these themes are intricately woven into the broader fabric of Tolstoy's depiction of Russian society. For instance, the profound disparity between the wealthy landowners and the peasants is an omnipresent theme in the literature that depicts the socio-economic landscape of 19th-century Russia and reflects the consequences of industrialization—a topic heavily connected to socio-political issues in Russian history.