In Harper Lee's novel "To Kill a Mockingbird," the main theme is B) Courage and moral integrity. This theme is vividly illustrated through the characters and their actions, particularly those of Atticus Finch, the father of the protagonist, Scout. Atticus, a lawyer in a small Southern town during the Great Depression, demonstrates moral integrity and courage when he chooses to defend Tom Robinson, a Black man unjustly accused of raping a white woman. Despite facing social ostracism, threats, and personal challenges, Atticus stands firm in his convictions, showing a deep sense of justice and moral fortitude.
The other options, while they may be present in the novel to some extent, are not the central themes:
- A) Love and friendship: While the novel does explore the bonds of family and friendship, particularly in the relationship between Scout, her brother Jem, and their friend Dill, these themes are secondary to the overarching themes of courage and moral integrity.
- C) Wealth and power: The novel does address social inequalities and the power dynamics of a small Southern town, but these are not the central themes. Instead, they serve as a backdrop to the main narrative and help highlight the courage and integrity of characters like Atticus Finch.
- D) Technology and modernization: These themes are not prevalent in "To Kill a Mockingbird." The novel is set in the 1930s, a time when issues of race, class, and justice were more at the forefront than technological advancement and modernization.
Therefore, option B, "Courage and moral integrity," is the correct answer as it captures the essential message of the novel and is reflected consistently through the actions and development of its key characters.