In Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use", the theme of heritage plays a central role in exploring the complexities of family relationships and life. cultural identity. Through the characters of Mama, Dee and Maggie, Walker delves into the tension between preserving one's roots and embracing modernity. This story is a powerful commentary on the importance of heritage in the formation of individual identities and family dynamics. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why violent video games should not be banned”? Get an original essay In this essay I will analyze how the concept of heritage is represented in “Everyday Use” and how it influences actions and relationships characters. . By examining the conflicting attitudes toward heritage that Mama, Dee, and Maggie embody, I will argue that Walker emphasizes the importance of understanding and honoring one's cultural background while allowing for personal growth and self-expression. Through a close reading of the text and a critical analysis of the characters' motivations, I will demonstrate how Walker challenges conventional notions of heritage and invites readers to reconsider their own connections to their past. By the end of this essay, readers will have a deeper appreciation of the complexities of heritage and its role in shaping individual and collective identities. In “Everyday Use,” the character of Mama embodies a deep connection to her heritage, rooted in practicality and simplicity. of his rural upbringing. She values ​​tangible aspects of her heritage, such as the quilts made by her ancestors, as symbols of her family history and cultural heritage. Mama's attitude towards heritage is one of preservation and continuity, as she sees these objects as a means of passing on traditions and stories to future generations. When her daughter Dee comes home with a new name and a disdain for their rural way of life, Mom's unwavering commitment to her heritage is tested. Despite Dee's attempts to claim the quilts as artistic artifacts, Mama's refusal to give them away speaks to her unwavering belief in the importance of honoring one's roots. Through the character of Mama, Walker highlights the resilience and strength that comes from accepting one's heritage, even in the face of modernity and change. On the other hand, Dee represents a different perspective on heritage, one that values ​​cultural heritage as a collectible. and displayed for aesthetic appreciation. Dee's desire to own the quilts for their artistic value rather than their sentimental meaning reflects her detachment from the traditions and values ​​Mama holds dear. Dee's rejection of her birth name in favor of "Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo" symbolizes her attempt to distance herself from her rural upbringing and construct a new identity based on an idealized version of African heritage. However, Dee's superficial understanding of heritage and her disregard for the lived experiences and struggles of her ancestors reveal her lack of connection to her true cultural roots. Walker uses the character of Dee to critique the commodification of heritage and the dangers of losing touch with one's authentic identity in pursuit of a fabricated past. Through the contrast between Mama and Dee, Walker highlights the complexities of heritage and the need for a deeper understanding of its importance in the formation of individual identities. Unlike Dee's detachment from her heritage, Maggie embodies a.