Vietnamese Folklore: Enduring Identity and Values

A Rich Treasure Trove of Folk Literature

Vietnamese folklore is a rich and diverse treasure trove, passed down through generations. From captivating folktales and lyrical folk songs to concise and meaningful proverbs, all reflect the spiritual life, soul, and intellect of the Vietnamese people.

Legends: Origins and History

Legends are stories about origins, history, heroic figures, and significant events for the community. Legends such as An Dương Vương and Mị Châu – Trọng Thủy, Sơn Tinh – Thủy Tinh, Thánh Gióng… not only explain the origins of the country and its people but also convey lessons about patriotism, the spirit of fighting against foreign invaders, courage, and intelligence.

Folktales: Education and Entertainment

Folktales are stories about everyday life, love, courage, intelligence, and the desire for justice. Tấm Cám, Sọ Dừa, Thạch Sanh… are familiar folktales that teach people about good and evil, justice, and perseverance. Through these stories, the Vietnamese people pass on moral lessons and valuable life experiences to their descendants.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: Philosophy of Life

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that summarize the life experiences of the folk. “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (One who eats the fruit should remember the one who planted the tree), “Một con ngựa đau cả tàu bỏ cỏ” (One sick horse makes the whole herd lose their pasture), “Có công mài sắt có ngày nên kim” (Diligence can overcome any difficulty)… are familiar proverbs that reflect the philosophy of life and moral concepts of the Vietnamese people. Folk songs are lyrical poems that express people’s feelings, thoughts, and aspirations. The sweet and profound folk melodies, like lullabies, express the sentiments of mothers, lovers, and friends…

The Value of Folklore

Folklore is not only a precious literary treasure but also an indispensable part of Vietnamese cultural identity. It helps us better understand Vietnamese history, people, and society. Folklore also contributes to moral education, character building, and fostering patriotism and national pride.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

In the present day, preserving and promoting folklore is a crucial task. We need specific measures to teach and introduce folklore to younger generations, helping them understand and appreciate the traditional values of the nation. Organizing cultural activities, festivals, television programs, and films about folklore will help revive and spread these good values.