What is the primary conflict faced by characters in To Kill a Mockingbird?

The primary conflict faced by characters in "To Kill a Mockingbird" revolves around social prejudice and injustice. This theme is intricately woven throughout the narrative, as the story is set in the racially charged atmosphere of the American South during the 1930s. Central to the plot is the trial of Tom Robinson, a Black man falsely accused of raping a White woman, which serves as a catalyst for exploring themes of racial inequality, moral integrity, and the loss of innocence.

The characters, especially Scout and Jem Finch, confront the realities of prejudice as they witness their father, Atticus Finch, defend Tom Robinson against the racially biased justice system. This conflict forces the characters to grapple with their own beliefs and the societal norms that dictate behavior, illustrating how deeply entrenched social injustices can affect individuals and families within the community.

While economic hardship, parental relationships, and the impact of war are present in the narrative, they do not capture the essence of the novel's core conflict as poignantly as the themes of social prejudice and injustice do. The story ultimately serves as a commentary on the moral failures of society in the face of discrimination, making this the primary conflict the characters face.