Final answer:
The theme of cultural heritage and identity in "Everyday Use" is explored through the conflict between Dee and her family over the use of culturally significant items. Three pieces of evidence support this theme: Dee's desire to take items from the household, the disagreement over the handmade quilts, and the contrasting attitudes towards cultural heritage.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Alice Walker's short story "Everyday Use," the theme of cultural heritage and identity is prominent. The central idea of the story revolves around the conflict between Dee and her mother and sister regarding the use of items that hold cultural significance. Three pieces of evidence that support this theme are:
- Dee's desire to take various items from their household to display as artifacts in her home.
- The disagreement between Dee and her mother about the handmade quilts and their meaning.
- The contrasting attitudes towards cultural heritage between Dee and her sister, Maggie.
Each of these pieces of evidence connects to the theme by highlighting the different perspectives on the importance and value of cultural heritage. Dee sees the items as collectibles to be admired, while her mother and sister understand their significance as symbols of their shared history and heritage. This theme of cultural heritage and identity is further reinforced through the author's use of symbolism and characterization.