Why is Bob Ewell an alcoholic?

Bob is the novel's antagonist and is known as the most despicable individual in Maycomb County. Bob Ewell has several children, is unemployed, and lives behind the towns' garbage dump. The root of Bob's drinking problem is a combination of being genetically predisposed to alcoholism and suffering immense emotional strain following the death of his wife. In Chapter 9, Atticus is having a discussion with his brother about the trial. Atticus asks Uncle Jack if he is familiar with the Ewells, and Jack describes them accurately. Atticus says, "You're a generation off. The present ones are the same, though" (Lee 117). This information, coupled with the fact that Bob's parents named him Robert E. Lee Ewell, after the Confederate General, suggests that Bob's parents were heavy drinkers as well. Harper Lee does not elaborate on when Bob Ewell's wife died, but traumatic events, such as losing a spouse, could have played a major role in his alcoholism. Bob is viewed with contempt by the community of Maycomb and their indignant feelings towards him could also contribute to his drinking problem.