Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Origins and Significance

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving stories, songs, proverbs, and customs passed down through generations. It reflects the history, society, and soul of the Vietnamese people, showcasing the ingenuity, wisdom, and deep emotions of the nation. From fairy tales teaching about kindness and justice to lyrical folk songs expressing love for one’s homeland, folklore maintains a vibrant life force.

Legends and Fairy Tales: Magical Stories

Legends are often linked to history, explaining the origins of objects, phenomena, or celebrating heroic figures. For example, the legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh depicts the long-standing battle between humans and nature, demonstrating the nation’s indomitable spirit. Fairy tales, on the other hand, are fictional, often with magical elements, teaching moral lessons. Stories like Tam Cam and Thach Sanh are familiar to generations of Vietnamese people, illustrating lessons about good and evil, justice, and compassion.

Iconic Characters in Folklore

From heroic figures like Saint Giong, a national hero with extraordinary strength, to resourceful characters like Mi Nuong, folklore always creates memorable characters. They represent the aspirations, dreams, and admirable qualities of the Vietnamese people.

Proverbs, Folk Songs, and Traditional Music: The Voice of the People

Proverbs are concise and meaningful sayings, summarizing the life experiences of the people. They contain valuable lessons about morality, lifestyle, and behavior. Folk songs (Ca dao) are lyrical poems expressing family affection, love, homesickness, or the joys and sorrows of life. Traditional music (Dan ca), with its melodious and profound melodies, reflects the lives and emotions of people in different regions.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

In the modern era, preserving and promoting folklore is crucial. We need to make efforts to pass on these precious cultural values to future generations, ensuring that folklore continues to live on through time.