'Everyday Use' by Alice Walker is a short story that centers on a mother and her two daughters, Maggie and Dee, as they navigate issues of heritage and identity. The narrative contrasts the traditional views of Maggie with Dee's modern, superficial understanding of their family's cultural legacy, particularly through the symbolism of quilts that represent their heritage. Ultimately, the story highlights the importance of genuine connections to one's roots over aesthetic appreciation.

1. EVERYDAY
USE
ALICE WALKER

2. Jens Martensson
Author Introduction
Name:AliceWalker
Biography:
Born:February9,1944,inEatonton,Georgia,USA
Education:BAfromSarahLawrenceCollege
Knownfor:Novels,shortstories,andessaysaboutrace,gender,and
socialissues
NotableWorks:"TheColorPurple"(wonthePulitzerPrize),"Meridian,"
"TheThirdLifeofGrange Copeland"
2

3. Jens Martensson
OVERVIEW
3
"Everyday Use" is a short story about a mother
(the narrator) and her two daughters, Maggie and
Dee.
Dee returns home to visit her family and wants to
take family heirlooms, including quilts, to
preserve her heritage.
The mother must decide to whom the quilts
rightfully belong.

4. Jens Martensson
CHARACTERS LIST
4
Mama (The Narrator):
Hardworking, practical, deeply connected to her heritage
Maggie:
Shy, scarred from a fire, stays at home, traditional in her views
Dee (Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo):
Confident, educated, embraces modern views of heritage

5. Jens Martensson
ANALYSIS
5
Narrative Perspective:
 First-person narration by the mother
 Provides an intimate, personal view of family
dynamics and cultural heritage
Setting:
 Rural Southern United States, likely in the
1960s or 1970s
 Reflects the socio-economic status and living
conditions of the family

6. Jens Martensson
CHARACTER ANALYSIS -
MAMA
6
Traits:
Strong, resilient, practical, and proud of her heritage
Role:
Narrator and central figure in the story, providing insight into family
dynamics
Development:
Mama’s decision to give the quilts to Maggie shows her recognition of
genuine connection to heritage

7. Jens Martensson
CHARACTER ANALYSIS -
MAGGIE
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Traits:
Timid, physically scarred, traditional, connected to family history
Role:
Represents a living, breathing continuation of the family's heritage
Development:
Maggie’s quiet strength is acknowledged and validated by Mama’s
decision

8. Jens Martensson
CHARACTER ANALYSIS -
DEE
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Traits:
Attractive, confident, educated, modern, somewhat superficial in her
understanding of heritage
Role:
Represents a more detached, aesthetic appreciation of heritage
Development:
Dee’s return home highlights her disconnection from the true essence of her
heritage

9. Jens Martensson
THEMES
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Heritage and Identity:
 Contrasting views on how heritage should be preserved and honored
Tradition vs. Modernity:
 Conflict between traditional rural life and modern, urban aspirations
Family Relationships:
 Tensions and bonds between family members, particularly between the
mother and her daughters
Cultural Pride:
 Exploration of African-American culture and the importance of understanding
one's roots

10. Jens Martensson
Major Factors
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Symbolism:
Quilts: Represent the family's heritage, each piece symbolizing a part of
their history
House: Reflects the family's socio-economic status and roots
Conflict:
Internal and external conflicts surrounding the interpretation and value
of heritage
Irony:
Dee's new name and outward embrace of heritage contrast with her lack
of true understanding and connection

11. Jens Martensson
KEY POINTS
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"Everyday Use" explores complex themes of heritage, identity, and
family through rich characterization and symbolism.
Walker emphasizes the importance of genuine, lived connections to
one's heritage over superficial appreciation.
The story is a powerful commentary on the different ways people
perceive and value their cultural roots.

12. Thank
You