Effect on Scout:
* Breaking down prejudice: Walter's appearance and social status initially make Scout judge him, but their conversation, particularly his earnest explanation about the "quarter" situation, helps her see beyond his clothes and realize the real person behind the stereotype.
* Learning about empathy: Scout realizes that Walter, despite being poor, has a strong sense of honor and doesn't want to be indebted to anyone. This encounter begins to open her eyes to the complexities of others' lives and perspectives.
* Developing compassion: This interaction marks a turning point for Scout as she starts to understand that not all people are the same and that appearances can be deceiving.
Effect on the mob:
* Humanizing the accused: This event directly links to the later mob scene at the jail. The encounter with Walter allows Scout to connect with the humanity of Tom Robinson, who, like Walter, comes from a disadvantaged background. When the mob confronts Atticus, Scout's understanding of Walter helps her to see the mob as individuals, not as a faceless entity.
* Breaking down the mob mentality: Scout's innocent but insightful questions and her act of handing a drink to Mr. Cunningham in the mob scene inadvertently expose the mob's inherent humanity. It reminds them that they are not a faceless force but individuals with feelings and moral compasses. This unexpected gesture becomes a catalyst for the mob's retreat.
In conclusion:
The Walter Cunningham encounter serves as a pivotal moment in *To Kill a Mockingbird*. It allows Scout to develop empathy and compassion, while also foreshadowing and contributing to the resolution of the tense mob scene. This scene highlights the novel's key themes of prejudice, social injustice, and the importance of understanding individual perspectives.