Index Discrimination against the Cunninghams Implications of Discrimination Conclusion Harper Lee's novel "To Kill a Mockingbird" explores various forms of discrimination, including racial prejudice. While the central focus is on the unfair 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 subject to social exclusion and prejudice due to their poverty and rural environment. This essay will delve into the cases of discrimination against the Cunninghams, highlighting the consequences and implications of such prejudice. Through 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. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essayDiscrimination against the CunninghamsDespite being from the white community, the Cunninghams face discrimination due to their socioeconomic status. The text mentions the Cunninghams as "country people" (Lee, 24) and living in the "wilderness" (Lee, 19). These descriptions highlight their rural background and the subsequent social stigma associated with it. The town's residents, including Scout and Jem Finch, view the Cunninghams as outsiders, treating them with contempt and condescension. Scout's description of the Cunninghams as "Maycomb's disgrace 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. Additionally, 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 says, “The Cunninghams never took anything they couldn't repay” (Lee, 27). This incident highlights the Cunninghams' strong sense of pride and their commitment to self-sufficiency. However, it also demonstrates the community's reluctance 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 negative perceptions of the Cunningham family. Furthermore, the Cunninghams' discrimination is exacerbated by the racial prejudices prevalent in Maycomb. Although the Cunninghams are white, their economic hardships bring them closer to African Americans than to the city's privileged white residents. 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 people, farmers, and the accident hit them the hardest” (Lee, 27). Atticus recognizes the interconnection between 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 larger society depicted in the novel. First, it reinforces the theme of empathy and the importance of understanding the circumstances of others. Through Scout's perspective, readers are encouraged to view the Cunninghams with empathy and recognize the injustice of their treatment. This challenges readers to reflect on their own biases and prejudices, prompting them to extend empathy to.