Vietnamese Folklore: Origins and Enduring Values

Origins and Formation

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, accumulated over thousands of years of history, reflecting the spiritual and material life and beliefs of the Vietnamese people. From mysterious legends to sweet folk songs and concise proverbs, all contribute to a diverse and rich cultural tapestry. The formation of folklore is closely linked to the process of nation-building and defense, the ups and downs of history, and the daily lives of people intertwined with nature.

Legends and Myths: Stories of Origin

Legends and myths hold a prominent position in Vietnamese folklore. Mysterious stories about gods, heroes, and sacred animals have become an integral part of the spiritual life of the people. For example, the legend of Con Rong Chau Tien explains the origin of the nation, or stories about Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh explain natural phenomena.

Legends and History: The Interplay of Fiction and Reality

Many legends are not only entertaining but also reflect historical events, wars, and nation-building efforts. Through them, people inherit and preserve valuable lessons about courage, intelligence, and unity.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Traditional Music: The Diverse Faces of Culture

Folk songs (Ca dao) are short lyrical poems that express the feelings, thoughts, and life philosophies of the people. From love to family affection, from homesickness to the aspiration for peace, folk songs fully reflect the Vietnamese soul.

Proverbs (Tục ngữ) are short, concise sayings that summarize life experiences and philosophies of the folk. Proverbs contain valuable lessons about life, work, nature, and society.

Traditional Music (Dân ca) are folk songs, often sung during festivals and work, reflecting the rich spiritual and cultural life of different regions.

The Enduring Value of Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is not only a valuable intangible cultural heritage but also an endless source of inspiration for art, literature, cinema, etc. It contributes to educating and nurturing the human soul, enriching the spiritual life of the community. Preserving and promoting the value of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, reflecting the depth of history and the cultural identity of the nation. The richness and diversity of folklore demonstrate the enduring vitality of a nation.