Maggie, a character in Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use," is a complex and often misunderstood individual. She is portrayed as a quiet, shy, and somewhat awkward woman who contrasts sharply with her sister Dee, who is outgoing and ambitious. Here are some key points about Maggie:
Maggie's Character:
- She is humble and accepting of her heritage: Unlike Dee, who seeks to reclaim her African heritage in a more symbolic and distanced way, Maggie embraces her heritage through her daily life and traditions. She is comfortable with her simple life and finds beauty in the everyday objects and practices that connect her to her ancestors.
- She is deeply connected to her family and community: Maggie's life is rooted in the family farm and the close-knit community she lives in. She finds comfort and belonging in these familiar surroundings, unlike Dee who has moved away and seeks a different identity.
- She is physically and emotionally scarred: Maggie is physically marked by a fire that burned her face and hands, leaving her self-conscious and insecure. This event has also left her with emotional scars that make her shy and withdrawn.
- She is resilient and strong: Despite her hardships, Maggie possesses an inner strength and resilience. She is able to endure hardship and find joy in simple pleasures.
Maggie's Relationship with Dee:
- Their relationship is strained: Dee's ambition and desire to distance herself from her past create tension and conflict with Maggie. Dee often belittles Maggie's way of life and views her as uneducated and backward.
- Maggie's silence speaks volumes: While Dee is outspoken and assertive, Maggie is more reserved and often speaks through her actions. Her silence reflects her pain and her struggle to find her voice in a family that often ignores her.
- Maggie's acceptance of Dee's rejection: Maggie is ultimately able to accept Dee's rejection of their shared heritage and her attempts to claim it for herself. This acceptance highlights Maggie's strength and her ability to find peace in her own identity.
Maggie's Significance:
Maggie's character is significant in "Everyday Use" because she represents the importance of embracing one's heritage in a genuine and authentic way. She is a reminder that true connection to one's roots lies not in symbolic gestures but in the everyday practices and traditions that shape our lives.
