While TKAM is a work of fiction, it is based on the real life Scottsboro trial. I’ve never really thought about the civil rights aspect, but merely the basic God given rights outlined in our Bill of Rights. Tom Robinson was denied a fair trial. This was based on his race; however, if we follow the Bill of Rights then this is never an issue. Black or white, we all are entitled to a fair trial. Just my $.02.
Would the story have been as enjoyable and widely read if Lee had written a non-fiction account of a trial?
I don’t think that there is any doubt that the main point of the story is about a man being judged by his skin color.
However, to focus purely on that is to miss the wonderful other points of the story. It is like going to a feast and only taking some roast beef.
Too many miss the artistry of the story and perhaps, perhaps, that is why Lee reveals that Atticus is not a perfect man.
“While TKAM is a work of fiction, it is based on the real life Scottsboro trial.”
I see no relation between them, other than they involve a black (or multiple blacks) accused of raping a white.