It seems as if the importance of family traditions and heirlooms has been passed
             down from generation to generation since the dawn of time. In many cultures, being
             named after a family member is not only the norm, but considered an honor. These
             heirlooms that are passed down represent a family's ancestry and heritage. In Alice
             Walker's "Everyday Use," it is evident that Dee is equally confused about her family's
             African-American heritage and the significance of their heirlooms. Futhermore, the
             oldest daughter Dee can be seen as a, "superior-minded child looking down on her
             mother's simplicity, and, in effect, the simplicity of her heritage" (Bauer 7).
             Dee's confusion and apparent misconceptions were present early in her life. To better
             understand the significance of Dee's faults, and how they develop, Walker makes Dee a
             round character. She also tells the story through the mother's point of view which allows
             the audience to understand both Dee and Maggie. Beginning with childhood Dee was
             never proud of her surroundings or family. From the expression on her face, you could
             assume that Dee was quite content with the thought of that ole' shack burning to the
             ground. As mom came running out with Maggie burning in her arms, she noticed Dee
             already outside by a tree with a concentrated look in her eyes. Dee seemed the least bit
             concerned about what was happening to the house, and more importantly, Maggie. She
             was most likely pre-occupied with the notion of a better house being built as a result of
             the fire. While the reader learns of Dee's selfishness he/she also learns of "Maggie's and
             her mother's pride in their home and their contentedness with life" (Baker 39).
             A prime example of Dee's confusion is when, &
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