which of the following best identifies the main theme of the text everyday use
What is the Main Theme of the Text “Everyday Use”?
Answer: The short story “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker delves into the theme of heritage and its significance in terms of identity and family. By examining the interactions between the characters, particularly between the mother, Maggie, and Dee (Wangero), Walker presents a complex perspective on how heritage should be understood and preserved.
Key Themes in “Everyday Use”
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Heritage and Tradition:
- The story explores the different interpretations of cultural heritage. For Dee, heritage is something to be observed and appreciated, much like artifacts in a museum. She sees her family heirlooms as cultural symbols rather than as practical objects of daily use.
- In contrast, the mother and Maggie view their heritage as a living part of their daily lives. For them, heritage is not just about preserving artifacts but maintaining a living connection to their ancestors through everyday use of these items.
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Identity and Self-Understanding:
- Dee’s change of name to Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo represents her attempt to reconnect with her African roots, yet her actions suggest a superficial understanding of cultural identity. Her rejection of her given name symbolizes a disconnect from her immediate family heritage.
- Maggie and the mother, on the other hand, have a more cohesive sense of identity that is deeply connected to their immediate family history and traditions.
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Family Dynamics:
- The story highlights familial tension arising from differing views of heritage. Dee’s condescending attitude toward her family and their way of life creates a rift between her and her mother and sister.
- The contrasting characters of Maggie and Dee serve to emphasize the different ways individuals connect to their heritage, often leading to misunderstandings within families.
Analysis and Interpretation
- Symbolism of the Quilts: The quilts in the story are symbolic of the family’s past. Dee wants to display them as artifacts, while Maggie understands their practical significance, embodying the continuity of family traditions through their use.
- Cultural vs. Practical Value: Through the mother’s decision to give the quilts to Maggie instead of Dee, Walker emphasizes the theme that true appreciation of heritage involves understanding its context and value in everyday life, rather than a mere aesthetic or superficial understanding.
Conclusion
In summary, the main theme of Alice Walker’s “Everyday Use” revolves around the complexities of heritage and how it is perceived and valued by different family members. The tension between Dee and her family encapsulates the broader dialogue about identity, culture, and the significance of maintaining a living connection to one’s heritage versus showcasing it as mere art or symbolism. Walker critiques the notion that heritage can be selectively chosen or detached from its daily context, illustrating through her characters that true appreciation requires engagement with both the tangible and intangible aspects of inheritance.
By presenting these contrasting views, Alice Walker prompts readers to reflect on their own interpretations of heritage and the ways in which it influences identity and family relationships.
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