Mr. Cunningham: Discrimination in "To Kill a Mockingbird"

Harper Lee's novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" explores various forms of discrimination, including racial prejudice. While the central focus lies on the unjust treatment of African Americans, it is important to examine the subtle nuances of discrimination within the community. One such example is the discrimination faced by the Cunningham family. Although they are white, the Cunninghams are subjected to social exclusion and prejudice due to their poverty and rural background. This essay will delve into the instances of discrimination against the Cunninghams, highlighting the consequences and implications of such bias. Through an analysis of the text, it becomes evident that the Cunninghams are victims of discrimination, shedding light on the complex nature of prejudice and the importance of empathy in society.

Discrimination Against the Cunninghams

Despite belonging to the white community, the Cunninghams face discrimination due to their socioeconomic status. The text mentions the Cunninghams being "country folks" (Lee, 24) and living in the "wilderness" (Lee, 19). These descriptions emphasize their rural background and the resulting social stigma attached to it. The town's residents, including Scout and Jem Finch, view the Cunninghams as outsiders, treating them with disdain and condescension. Scout's description of the Cunninghams being "the disgrace of Maycomb for three generations" (Lee, 24) further exemplifies the prejudice they face. The Cunninghams are marginalized solely based on their economic circumstances, reflecting the ignorance and superficial judgment prevalent within the community.

Moreover, the Cunninghams experience discrimination in the form of exclusion from social events. When Scout's teacher, Miss Caroline, offers Walter Cunningham a quarter for lunch, he refuses, leading to a confrontation. Scout narrates, "The Cunninghams never took anything they can't pay back" (Lee, 27). This incident highlights the Cunninghams' strong sense of pride and their commitment to self-sufficiency. However, it also demonstrates the community's unwillingness to understand their situation and empathize with their struggles. By refusing Miss Caroline's help, Walter inadvertently exposes himself to further discrimination, as the incident reinforces the negative perception of the Cunningham family.

Furthermore, the Cunninghams' discrimination is compounded by the racial bias prevalent in Maycomb. Although the Cunninghams are white, their economic struggles align them more closely with African Americans than with the privileged white residents of the town. This intersectionality further isolates them and intensifies the discrimination they face. Atticus Finch, the moral compass of the novel, acknowledges this discrimination when he tells Scout, "The Cunninghams are country folks, farmers, and the crash hit them hardest" (Lee, 27). Atticus recognizes the interconnectedness of poverty and discrimination, highlighting the shared experiences of marginalized groups.

Implications of Discrimination

The discrimination faced by the Cunninghams has significant implications for the characters and the broader society depicted in the novel. Firstly, it reinforces the theme of empathy and the importance of understanding others' circumstances. Through Scout's perspective, the readers are encouraged to view the Cunninghams with empathy and recognize the unfairness of their treatment. This challenges the readers to reflect on their own biases and prejudices, urging them to extend empathy to individuals who may not fit their preconceived notions.

Additionally, the discrimination against the Cunninghams highlights the flawed nature of societal hierarchies. Maycomb's social structure is built upon wealth and privilege, disregarding the struggles of those who do not fit within that mold. By shedding light on the discrimination faced by the Cunninghams, Lee critiques the superficiality and inherent injustice of such social hierarchies. The novel encourages readers to question the validity of societal norms and to challenge the prejudice that arises from them.

Conclusion

The discrimination against the Cunninghams in "To Kill a Mockingbird" serves as a powerful reminder of the complex nature of prejudice. Despite being white, the Cunninghams face discrimination due to their socioeconomic status and rural background. Their marginalization sheds light on the flaws within Maycomb's society and emphasizes the importance of empathy and understanding. The novel urges readers to confront their own biases and recognize the humanity in all individuals, regardless of their circumstances. By exploring the discrimination faced by the Cunninghams, "To Kill a Mockingbird" serves as a call for compassion and empathy, challenging the readers to foster a more inclusive and just society.