Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Fairy Tales – The Soul of a Nation

Vietnamese folklore is a rich and diverse treasure trove, reflecting the spiritual life, soul, and intellect of the Vietnamese people through generations. Fairy tales hold a particularly important place. Imaginative and fantastical stories like Tam Cam, Thach Sanh, and So Dua are not just entertainment but also carry profound lessons about morality, kindness, justice, and the triumph of good over evil. The characters are often ordinary people who possess admirable qualities, overcoming challenges to achieve ultimate happiness. This serves as inspiration and encouragement, especially for children.

Proverbs and Folk Songs – The Wisdom of the People

Proverbs and folk songs are concise and succinct forms of folk literature, containing valuable life experiences. Proverbs are short, pithy sayings reflecting life philosophies, production experiences, and social experiences. For example: “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (One who eats the fruit should remember the one who planted the tree), “Có công mài sắt có ngày nên kim” (Diligence can turn iron into needles). Folk songs are lyrical songs expressing people’s feelings, thoughts, and aspirations, such as love, family, and homeland. The subtlety and depth of each word reflect the skill and deep understanding of life possessed by the people.

Traditional Festivals – Cultural Identity

Traditional festivals are an integral part of Vietnamese folklore. Each festival has its own meaning, reflecting the beliefs and customs of different regions. From major festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) and the Hung Kings Temple Festival to smaller local festivals, they show the close bond between people and nature, and the community. The rituals and folk games in the festivals are not only entertainment but also opportunities to commemorate heroes, express gratitude to ancestors, and pray for a prosperous new year.

Intangible Cultural Heritage – A Living Museum

Vietnamese folklore is also expressed through various other forms such as folk art, traditional architecture, and folk music… These intangible cultural heritages are invaluable treasures that need to be preserved and conserved. Preserving and promoting these heritages not only helps preserve the national cultural identity but also contributes to enriching the world’s cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is a valuable resource that needs to be researched, preserved, and promoted. Understanding and appreciating folklore not only helps us learn more about the history and traditions of our nation but also helps us live better lives.