IndexThe Cunninghams: the virtuous poorThe impact of poverty on moralityConclusionBibliographyHarper Lee's novel, "To Kill a Mockingbird", explores the complex dynamics of race, class and morality in the fictional town of Maycomb, Alabama, in the 1930s. Two families, the Cunninghams and the Ewells, play a significant role in the narrative, representing contrasting aspects of poverty and morality. While the Cunninghams are depicted as honorable, hard-working individuals who prioritize family values, the Ewells are portrayed as inept 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. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay The Cunninghams: The Poor Virtuous 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 exacerbated by an inability to repay small loans in cash and a reliance on bartering for goods and services. However, their moral character shines through in their actions and interactions with others in the community. For example, when Scout's teacher, Miss Caroline, offers Walter Jr. some lunch money but does not understand the social implications of his refusal, Scout steps in to explain the Cunningham family's situation. Scout says, "The Cunninghams never took anything they couldn't repay: no church baskets and no stamps. They never took anything from anyone, they get along with what they have" (Lee, 26). This incident shows that the Cunninghams are proud and self-sufficient, refusing to accept charity they cannot repay. Furthermore, the Cunninghams' sense of community is evident in their participation in the crowd that gathers at Maycomb Prison 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 protecting their moral values, even if it means resorting to violence. Atticus recognizes the Cunningham family's inherent goodness and manages to ease 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 defend what they believe in, even if through the wrong means. The Impact of Poverty on Morality The depiction of the Cunningham family in "To Kill a Mockingbird" raises important questions about the relationship between poverty and morality. The Cunninghams, despite their poverty, 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. Furthermore, 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, also living in poverty, presents a contrasting portrait of the impact of poverty on morality. The Ewells are portrayed as lazy, dishonest and, 1960.