Characters

The most important characters in the short story “Everyday Use” by Alice Walker are Mama, as the main character, and Maggie and Dee, as secondary characters. Note that Hakim-a-Barber, Dee’s husband or boyfriend, also appears in the story.

Mama is a developing character, as the story begins with her being concerned with Dee’s visit and her attitude towards her family.

Her relationship with Dee is complicated, as Mama’s words reflect some resentment towards Dee and her rejection of the family’s lifestyle and heritage. However, she is still Dee’s mother, and it is obvious that she loves her, because she dreams about a beautiful, loving reunion.

However, by the end of the story, Mama stands firm in her decision to give Maggie the old quilts. She recognizes herself in Maggie’s submissiveness and realizes she has the power to make Maggie feel like she deserves more than she believes she does.

You can read Mama's, Dee's, and Maggie's full characterization in the next pages.