Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

The Diversity and Richness of Vietnamese Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, reflecting the history, life, and soul of the Vietnamese people over thousands of years. From magical fairy tales and mysterious legends to concise proverbs and folk songs, all contribute to a unique and diverse cultural landscape.

Legends and Mythology:

Vietnamese legends are often associated with historical figures, national heroes, or fascinating natural phenomena. Stories like Saint Giong, Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh, Chu Dong Tu – Tien Dung not only explain the origin of things and phenomena but also express the aspirations for justice, righteousness, and patriotism of the people.

Fairy Tales:

Vietnamese fairy tales are highly educational, often praising good, condemning evil, and emphasizing positive qualities such as kindness, courage, and intelligence. Characters like Tam Cam, Thach Sanh, Ly Thong have become familiar and beloved by generations.

Folk Songs and Proverbs:

Folk songs (Ca dao) are folk lyric poems, reflecting the feelings, thoughts, and lives of the people. From love between couples and family affection to social concerns, folk songs express themselves honestly and deeply. Proverbs (Tuc ngu) are short, concise sayings, summarizing life experiences and reflecting the Vietnamese philosophy of life. We can find valuable lessons on morality, lifestyle, and behavior in the rich treasury of proverbs.

The Value of Folklore

Folklore is not only a precious intangible cultural heritage but also an endless source of inspiration for art, literature, and other fields. Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen to maintain the nation’s cultural identity.

Preserving Folklore:

Today, preserving folklore faces many challenges due to the development of modern society. However, many efforts are being made to preserve and disseminate these cultural values to younger generations, such as organizing traditional festivals, art programs, and research and publishing activities.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is an indispensable part of the nation’s cultural identity. Learning about and exploring this cultural treasure helps us better understand the history, people, and society of Vietnam, thereby contributing to building a strong and civilized country.