Table of ContentsPreservation or Progress: Commoditization of Culture: Importance of Personal Connections: Conclusion: In Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use", the author explores the theme complex cultural heritage through the contrasting perspectives of two sisters, Dee and Maggie. Through examining their divergent understanding and appreciation of their African American heritage, Walker presents a thought-provoking commentary on the importance of cultural identity and the transformative power of knowledge. This essay aims to dissect the different dimensions of the theme of cultural heritage in "Everyday Use", highlighting the conflicts between preservation and progress, the commodification of culture and the importance of personal connections with one's roots. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get the original essay Preservation versus Progress: One of the central conflicts in “Everyday Use” revolves around different attitudes toward preservation of cultural heritage. Dee, the more educated and seemingly confident sister, embodies the idea of ​​progress and modernization. She views her family's artifacts and traditions as antiquated relics that should be displayed in a museum rather than used in daily life. In contrast, Maggie, less educated but intimately connected to her family's history, values ​​the practical and emotional significance of their heritage. Walker skillfully explores the tension between preservation and progress using quilts as symbolic objects. The quilts, made from pieces of clothing worn by their ancestors, represent the interconnectedness of generations and the preservation of cultural memory. While Dee views them as valuable works of art to hang on the wall, Maggie understands that their true value lies in their ability to provide warmth and comfort. This conflict highlights the importance of recognizing the living and evolving nature of cultural heritage and the need to balance preservation with adaptation to the contemporary world. Commodification of Culture: Walker also delves deeper into the theme of cultural commodification, exemplified by Dee's appropriation of her African-American style. heritage. Dee, after embracing her new African identity, adopts a new name, Wangero Leewanika Kemanjo, in an attempt to distance herself from her family's slave past. She seeks to own her heritage for its aesthetic appeal, often ignoring the deeper meanings and struggles associated with it. The author critiques this superficial engagement with culture by portraying Dee as an outsider to her own heritage. Dee's desire to own the quilts as artifacts further highlights her objectification of African American culture, reducing it to a mere fashion statement. In contrast, Maggie's intimate understanding of their heritage is rooted in personal experiences and relationships. Walker suggests that true appreciation and understanding of cultural heritage comes not from external displays but from a genuine connection to one's roots and shared history. Importance of Personal Connections: Walker highlights the importance of personal connections to cultural heritage through the character of Mama, the narrator. of history. Mom is torn between her daughters' conflicting views, and ultimately sides with Maggie's deep understanding and appreciation for their shared history. Mama's decision to bestow the quilts on Maggie speaks to the importance of personal connections and lived experiences in preserving cultural heritage. By giving.