IndexIntroductionThe Ewell family: poverty and ignoranceMayella Ewell: a tragic figureThe bottom rung of white societySocial inequality: poverty and ignoranceThe Ewells' interactions with Atticus FinchConclusionIntroductionThe Ewells in Harper Lee's novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, play a significant role in portraying the flawed and unjust society of Maycomb County. As a white family living on the outskirts of town, the Ewells are marginalized and despised by the community. However, their actions and interactions with the other characters shed light on the deep-seated racism and classism that permeates the city. This essay will delve into the complexities of the Ewell family, exploring their role in the novel and the larger themes they represent. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The Ewell Family: Poverty and Ignorance The Ewells, led by Bob Ewell, are characterized as the epitome of poverty and ignorance. Lee presents them in stark contrast to Maycomb's more respectable and educated families. Despite their social position, the Ewells hold a certain power within the community, as Bob Ewell uses his position as a white man to exploit the racial prejudices of the time. This is evident in his false accusation against Tom Robinson, an innocent black man, of raping his daughter, Mayella Ewell. Mayella Ewell: A Tragic Figure Mayella Ewell, the eldest daughter of the family, serves as a tragic figure in the novel. She is trapped in poverty and subjected to her father's abuse. The reader sympathizes with his situation, as he is a victim of the oppressive society in which he lives. However, Mayella is also complicit in perpetuating the injustices of Maycomb County. His false testimony against Tom Robinson reveals his willingness to uphold the racist status quo to escape his own miserable existence. The Bottom Rung of White Society The Ewells, especially Bob, represent the bottom rung of white society in Maycomb. They are considered "white trash" by the rest of the city, without social and economic prospects. However, their whiteness still gives them some privileges and advantages over the black community. This juxtaposition reflects the deeply ingrained racism of the time, in which even the most marginalized white individuals still held power over black individuals. The Ewells may be despised, but they are still seen as superior to Maycomb's black community. Social Inequality: Poverty and Ignorance The Ewells also highlight the theme of social inequality in the novel. Maycomb County is divided into distinct social classes, with the Ewells at the bottom. Their poverty and lack of education condemn them to a life of hardship and desperation. The novel suggests that the Ewells are victims of their circumstances, trapped in a cycle of poverty and ignorance. However, their actions, particularly Bob Ewell's attempt to incriminate Tom Robinson, reveal their willingness to exploit their social position for personal gain. The Ewells' Interactions with Atticus Finch The Ewell family's interactions with Atticus Finch further highlight the social and racial dynamics at play in Maycomb. . Atticus, a respected lawyer and moral compass of the novel, defends Tom Robinson in court. This places him in direct opposition to the Ewells, as he challenges their false accusations and exposes the truth. Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson symbolizes his commitment to justice and equality, even in the face of overwhelming prejudice. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get an essay.