The last description makes the most sense, as to how the wording "mob" and "populace" imply them as behaving as group. Called social group psychology, many people "join the crowd" when it comes to supporting or opposing certain events, causes, or acts.
Think about how moon shadow was separated from everyone else. Think about their struggles, then it will help you find the answer. :)
I confused about this question. What?!
He was used to being made fun of.
We know this by him taking this reply in ‘with a sort of humble patience’. This means that he has experienced this kind of teasing - or even bullying before and he is used to it.