The Cunninghams and Ewells: a Dichotomy of Poverty and Morality

Harper Lee's novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird," explores the complex dynamics of race, class, and morality in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama during the 1930s. Two families, the Cunninghams and the Ewells, play significant roles in the narrative, representing contrasting aspects of poverty and morality. While the Cunninghams are depicted as hard-working, honorable individuals who prioritize family values, the Ewells are portrayed as shiftless and morally bankrupt. Through their contrasting behaviors and interactions with the protagonist, Scout Finch, Lee highlights the consequences of poverty on individual character and morality. This essay will analyze the depiction of the Cunningham family in "To Kill a Mockingbird," exploring their impact on the narrative and their role in shaping the novel's themes of poverty and morality.

The Cunninghams: The Virtuous Poor

The Cunninghams, particularly Walter Cunningham Sr. and his son, Walter Cunningham Jr., are introduced early in the novel as poor but virtuous individuals. Their poverty is emphasized by their inability to pay back small loans in cash and their reliance on bartering for goods and services. However, their moral character shines through their actions and interactions with others in the community. For example, when Scout's teacher, Miss Caroline, offers Walter Jr. money for lunch but does not understand the social implications of his refusal, Scout steps in to explain the Cunningham family's situation. Scout narrates, "The Cunninghams never took anything they can't pay back—no church baskets and no scrip stamps. They never took anything off of anybody, they get along on what they have" (Lee, 26). This incident establishes the Cunninghams as proud and self-sufficient, refusing to accept charity they cannot repay.

Furthermore, the Cunninghams' sense of community is evident in their participation in the mob that gathers at the Maycomb jail to confront Atticus Finch, who is defending Tom Robinson, an African American accused of raping a white woman. Although their intentions are misguided, their actions reflect their commitment to protect their own and uphold their moral values, even if it means resorting to violence. Atticus recognizes the Cunningham family's inherent goodness and manages to diffuse the tense situation by appealing to Walter Cunningham Sr.'s sense of honor and reminding him of their shared history. This episode demonstrates the Cunninghams' loyalty to their community and their willingness to stand up for what they believe in, albeit through misguided means.

The Impact of Poverty on Morality

The portrayal of the Cunningham family in "To Kill a Mockingbird" raises important questions about the relationship between poverty and morality. The Cunninghams, despite their destitution, remain morally upright and maintain a strong sense of integrity. Their poverty does not define their character; rather, it reveals their resilience and determination to uphold their values. This challenges the prevailing stereotype that poverty is directly linked to moral depravity. Additionally, the Cunninghams' unwavering commitment to their community suggests that poverty can foster a sense of unity and loyalty, as individuals rely on each other for support.

On the other hand, the Ewell family, who also live in poverty, presents a contrasting portrayal of the impact of destitution on morality. The Ewells are depicted as lazy, dishonest, and morally bankrupt. Bob Ewell, the patriarch, epitomizes the worst aspects of poverty, failing to provide for his family and resorting to deceit and violence to maintain his power within the community. His daughter, Mayella, accuses Tom Robinson of rape, knowing that she is fabricating the story to protect herself from her abusive father. The Ewells' actions highlight the potential consequences of poverty when combined with a lack of moral fiber.

Conclusion

The Cunninghams and Ewells in "To Kill a Mockingbird" represent two distinct facets of poverty and morality. The Cunninghams, despite their poverty, exemplify virtuous behavior, emphasizing the importance of family, community, and individual integrity. In contrast, the Ewells embody the negative consequences of poverty, exhibiting a lack of moral values and resorting to deceit and violence. Harper Lee's depiction of these families serves to challenge stereotypes and shed light on the complex relationship between poverty and morality. By exploring the dichotomy between the Cunninghams and the Ewells, Lee emphasizes the significance of individual choices and values in shaping one's character, regardless of their socioeconomic background.

As readers, we are encouraged to reflect on the impact of poverty on individuals and communities and to challenge preconceived notions about morality and social class. "To Kill a Mockingbird" serves as a powerful reminder that poverty does not define a person's character, and that moral integrity can transcend socioeconomic circumstances. By delving into the lives of the Cunninghams and the Ewells, Lee prompts us to question our own assumptions and biases, encouraging a more nuanced understanding of poverty and morality in society.

Bibliography

Lee, Harper. To Kill a Mockingbird. HarperCollins Publishers, 1960.