Dee believes that Maggie should not have the quilts because she feels that Maggie will not appreciate or understand their cultural and historical significance. Dee sees herself as being more deserving of the quilts because she is the one who is interested in preserving their heritage and using them as art pieces.
the quilts Apex
In Alice Walker's "Everyday Use," the quilts symbolize cultural heritage and personal identity. For Dee, the quilts represent a link to her African roots and a means to showcase her heritage as art, detached from their practical use. In contrast, for Maggie, the quilts embody a deep familial connection and the memories of her ancestors, serving as a tangible reminder of her upbringing and the love within her family. This difference highlights their contrasting views on heritage: Dee seeks to claim it as a status symbol, while Maggie values it as a living part of her life.
The narrator, Mama, thinks that Maggie will appreciate the quilts more as she plans to give them to her as a heritage to carry on their family traditions. Mama believes that Maggie understands the significance and history behind the quilts, while she sees Dee as viewing them as mere decorations.
I just want free points
In Alice Walker's "Everyday Use," symbolism plays a crucial role in revealing Maggie's character. The quilts, representing heritage and familial ties, symbolize Maggie's connection to her roots and her appreciation for tradition, contrasting sharply with her sister Dee's more superficial understanding of identity. Maggie's scars symbolize her struggles and resilience, showcasing her depth and vulnerability. Through these symbols, Walker illustrates Maggie's quiet strength and profound respect for her family's legacy.
maggie, dee, and mama
In the book "Everyday Use" by Alice Walker the narrator reveals that Maggie has low self esteem and has been disfigured. The narrator, who is Maggie's mother, feels that Maggie will be the caretaker of the family's heritage.
The quilts because they represent history .
The climax in "Everyday Use" occurs when Dee wants to take the family quilts to hang them up as decorations. Mama, the narrator, initially agrees but then decides to give the quilts to Maggie, the sister who will put them to everyday use, leading to a moment of tension and realization about the value of heritage and tradition.
In "Everyday Use," Alice Walker employs various forms of figurative language, including symbolism and imagery. The quilts represent heritage and the differing attitudes toward cultural identity between the characters Dee and Maggie. Walker also uses metaphors to highlight the contrast between superficial appreciation of culture and genuine connection to one’s roots. These elements enrich the narrative and deepen the exploration of identity and tradition.
In Alice Walker's "Everyday Use," Dee wants to take the quilts as a symbol of her heritage and showcase them as art rather than use them for their intended purpose. She sees them as valuable artifacts that represent her cultural identity, which she wishes to reclaim and display in her home. However, her sister Maggie and their mother view the quilts as practical items imbued with family history and personal memories, highlighting the difference in their perceptions of heritage and tradition.
Alice Berg has written: 'Celebrate! with little quilts' -- subject(s): Patterns, Patchwork, Crib quilts, Doll quilts, Quilting