Everyday Use Compare And Contrast Essay

One would rightfully assume two sisters raised by the same mother in the same household would be quite similar to each other but this is most definitely not the case in “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker. It is clear that the sisters in the story, Maggie and Dee, are complete contrasts of each other. To begin, the most obvious difference between the two is their appearances. Maggie is a fragile, awkward girl who seems to have little to no self-esteem. In the beginning of the story, their mother says that “good looks passed by her (Maggie)” Now, on the other hand, Dee is what you would call an attractive woman. She has nice hair, a full figure, and takes care of herself in every aspect. For example, when their mother sees Dee, she explained, “Even her feet were always neat-looking.” In regards to their physical appearances, the contrast between the two is of a girl and a woman. To continue, the sisters possess exceptionally …show more content…
Maggie has roots planted deeply and strongly in the soil of her culture while Dee does not. Dee was always embarrassed of her upbringing and the traditions that came along with it. For example, in the story, their mother remarked that Dee “hated the house that much” whereas if readers recall, Maggie finds comfort and reassurance in that house. Also, Dee always wants nice things. Maggie, on the other hand, is not as materialistic. For instance, Dee would only consider the quilts of value and show them off if they fit her requirements of attractiveness while Maggie would treasure the memories of her ancestors culture seemed between the quilt regardless of the way they looked. The timid and homely Maggie also finds comfort and encouragement in the quilts which leads one to believe that this, along with every other striking difference, their mother chose Maggie as the rightful receiver of the