What is the Difference Between Ewells and Cunninghams?

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The Ewells and Cunninghams are two families in Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" that, despite being poor and white, have distinct differences. Here are the main differences between the two families:

  1. Hygiene: The Ewells are filthy, with Burris Ewell's neck being dark grey, the backs of his hands rusty, and his fingernails black deep into the quick. On the other hand, the Cunninghams are clean, with Walter Cunningham wearing a clean shirt and neatly mended overalls.
  2. Reputation: The Cunninghams are respected by the community, while the Ewells are despised. Mr. Cunningham is considered noble and trustworthy, whereas Mr. Ewell is a con artist.
  3. Work Ethic: The Cunninghams are hardworking, while the Ewells are lazy. The Cunningham children go to school daily, whereas the Ewell children rarely attend school.
  4. Education: Both families have little education, but for different reasons. The Ewells have little education because they have never completed school, while the Cunninghams' limited education is due to their poverty.
  5. Social Interaction: The whites don't accept the Ewells because they live like pigs, and the blacks don't accept them either. The Cunninghams, however, are admired by the community.
  6. Accepting Help: The Cunninghams only accept things from others when they have earned them or are sure to return them.

In summary, the Ewells and Cunninghams may share similarities in their social class and poverty, but their differences in hygiene, reputation, work ethic, education, and social interaction set them apart.

Comparative Table: Ewells vs Cunninghams

The Ewells and Cunninghams are two families in Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" that belong to the same social class, but they have distinct differences and similarities.

Similarities:

  • Both families are poor and white.
  • They live in Maycomb, a small town in Alabama.
  • They both face hardships due to the Great Depression.

Differences:

Family Hygiene Work Ethic Respect Morality
Ewells Filthy, lazy, and dirty Stay on government welfare checks Despised by the community Evil and dishonest
Cunninghams Clean, hardworking Barter their crops for necessities Respected by the community Proud, honest, and loyal

The Cunninghams are respected for their hard work, honesty, and pride, while the Ewells are despised for their laziness, dishonesty, and lack of morality. The Cunninghams are known for their loyalty and standing by their word, while the Ewells are known for holding grudges and seeking revenge. Walter Cunningham, a member of the Cunningham family, is a respectful boy who helps his father on the farm and attends school when he can. In contrast, Burris Ewell, a member of the Ewell family, is a rude and disobedient adolescent.