In Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use," the characters of Maggie and Dee serve as illustrations of how individuals from the same background can develop different identities and worldviews. Through his portrayal of Maggie and Dee, Walker explores themes of heritage, identity, and the complexity of family relationships. This essay will analyze the characters of Maggie and Dee, examining their different attitudes towards their heritage and the implications of these attitudes on their identities. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Maggie and Dee are sisters who grew up in the same family, but their personalities and attitudes toward their heritage are starkly different. Maggie is described as shy, reserved, and lacking in self-confidence, while Dee is described as assertive, educated, and proud of her African heritage. The differences between the two sisters are evident from the beginning of the story, as Maggie is described as "ugly and ashamed of the burn scars along her arms and legs" while Dee is "lighter than Maggie, with prettier hair and thicker hair." figure." One of the central conflicts in the story arises from Dee's desire to reclaim her heritage by taking objects from her family home to display as cultural artifacts. Dee's approach to her heritage is one of detachment, as she seeks to collect objects such as quilts and churns as symbols of her African roots. In contrast, Maggie's attitude towards her heritage is one of quiet acceptance and reverence. She is shown to be content with her life, finding joy and meaning in her daily routine and traditions passed down from her ancestors. The quilts in particular serve as a symbol of Maggie and Dee's different attitudes towards their heritage. Dee sees the quilts as precious artifacts to be displayed and admired, while Maggie sees them as practical objects to be used and treasured in life. of everyday life. The quilts represent the tangible expression of the family heritage and the conflict over their ownership highlights the different perspectives of the two sisters. Walker uses the characters of Maggie and Dee to explore the complexities of identity and heritage. Dee's rejection of her given name in favor of the African name "Wangero" reflects her desire to disassociate herself from her family history and claim a new identity rooted in her African heritage. In contrast, Maggie's acceptance of her name and her connection to her family's traditions demonstrate her deep sense of identity and belonging. The story ultimately suggests that a person's attitude towards cultural heritage is not determined solely by external factors such as education or social status, but by an individual's personal connection to their roots. Maggie's simple, unpretentious lifestyle is presented as a valid expression of her heritage, while Dee's attempts to appropriate her family's assets prove superficial and disconnected from the true spirit of their heritage. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper now from our expert writers. Get a Custom Essay In conclusion, the characters of Maggie and Dee in Alice Walker's "Everyday Use" serve as powerful symbols of the complexity of identity and heritage. Through their different attitudes toward their family's traditions and possessions, Walker explores the ways in which individuals construct their identities and navigate the complexities of family relationships. There..