Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Mythology: The Roots of Culture

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure, preserving colorful stories, legends, and myths. From tales about the origins of mountains and rivers to legends about national heroes, all reflect the rich imagination and aspirations of the Vietnamese people. The story of An Dương Vương and Mị Châu – Trọng Thủy, the Legend of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, and the Legend of the Dragon and Fairy are prime examples, not only explaining the origins of the country but also teaching lessons about courage, loyalty, and morality.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Voice of the People

Folk songs and proverbs are vivid evidence of the intellect and soul of the Vietnamese people. Short and poignant folk songs express family affection, love, and community spirit. “My body is like a thorny jujube/White inside, black outside” is a typical example, reflecting the unhappiness of women in the old society. Proverbs, short and rich in imagery, carry profound philosophical meaning, summarizing the life experiences of generations. “Eat the fruit, remember the person who planted the tree” and “Diligence will overcome difficulties” are familiar proverbs that teach us morality.

Festivals: The Connection Between Humans and Nature

Traditional festivals are an integral part of Vietnamese folklore. From large festivals such as Tết Nguyên Đán (Lunar New Year) and the Hung Kings Temple Festival to smaller, more local festivals, all demonstrate reverence for ancestors, deities, and the harmony between humans and nature. Each festival has its unique rituals, games, and dishes, creating a diverse and rich cultural landscape.

Folk Arts: Unceasing Creativity

Vietnamese folk art is also incredibly diverse and rich, from Đông Hồ paintings and Hàng Trống paintings, ceramics to traditional musical instruments like the đàn nguyệt and đàn bầu… Each art form has its own unique beauty, reflecting the talent and creativity of the Vietnamese people.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

In today’s world, preserving and promoting folklore is crucial. We need to make efforts to maintain traditional cultural values and pass them on to future generations. Organizing cultural activities and educating young people about folklore is essential to prevent these values from being lost.