In Harper Lee's classic novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird", the Cunninghams are a prominent family in the town of Maycomb. Although they are not the richest or most educated family, they play a significant role in the story, particularly through the character of Walter Cunningham Jr. One of the key characteristics of the Cunninghams is their strong sense of pride and independence. Despite their limited financial resources, they refuse to accept charity or handouts from others. This is evident in the scene where Walter Cunningham Jr. is invited to dinner at the Finch house and politely declines Atticus' offer of money, instead choosing to pay off his debt with his farm assets. Furthermore, the Cunninghams are depicted as honest and hard-working individuals. Walter Cunningham Sr. is a farmer who struggles to make ends meet, but he does so thanks to determination and perseverance. He teaches his son, Walter Jr., the value of hard work and integrity, instilling in him a sense of pride in his family name. Despite their rugged appearance, the Cunninghams are also shown to have a strong sense of community and loyalty. When Atticus defends Tom Robinson in court, Walter Cunningham Sr. is part of the group that comes to lynch Tom, but ultimately chooses not to go through with it, showing a moment of moral integrity. This shows that while the Cunninghams may have their flaws, they are ultimately respectable and honorable people. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay In conclusion, the Cunninghams may not be the most refined or sophisticated family in Maycomb, but they possess qualities of pride, hard work, honesty, and loyalty that make them stand out in the novel. Through their portrayal, Harper Lee highlights the complexities of human nature and challenges readers to look beyond superficial appearances to see the true character of individuals. They may not be the most important family in town, but their presence in the story adds depth and richness to the narrative, making them an integral part of the fabric of Maycomb society. The Cunninghams' pride and independence can be seen in their interactions with the Finch family. In the novel, Atticus Finch offers to lend Walter Cunningham Jr. some money, but Walter refuses, stating, "I can't pay you all back in one day." This demonstrates the Cunninghams' reluctance to accept help without being able to repay it, showcasing their self-sufficient nature. This rejection of charity also reflects the family's desire to maintain their dignity and honor, even in the face of financial hardship. Additionally, the Cunninghams' hard-working nature is exemplified by their commitment to the farm and their determination to provide for their family. Walter Cunningham Sr. is described as a man who "makes a living for his family", despite the challenges he faces as a farmer in a difficult economic climate. This dedication to hard work and perseverance is passed down to Walter Jr., who learns the value of work and integrity from his father. The Cunninghams' work ethic serves as a testament to their resilience and strength in the face of adversity. Furthermore, the sense of community and loyalty that the Cunninghams display is evident in their actions during Tom Robinson's trial. Although initially part of the group trying to harm Tom, Walter Cunningham Sr. ultimately chooses to step back and prevent the violence from escalating. This decision highlights the moral compass that the Cunninghams possess, demonstrating that they are capable of making difficult choices based on their principles and values. This act of.