Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Myths

Vietnamese folklore is incredibly rich and diverse, passed down through generations. Legends and myths are an integral part, containing mysterious stories about the origin of the country, heroes, and natural phenomena. From the legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, explaining the phenomenon of floods, to the story of An Duong Vuong and Mi Chau – Trong Thuy, reflecting the ups and downs of history, each story carries a profound meaning, educating people about morality, courage, and intelligence.

Proverbs and Folk Songs

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that summarize the life experiences of the people. We can find valuable lessons in proverbs about labor, production, people, and society. For example: “Little property, big heart”, “Eat the fruit, remember the one who planted the tree”,… Folk songs (Ca dao) are lyrical poems that express the feelings, thoughts, and aspirations of the people. From love between couples, family affection to homesickness, folk songs are expressed sincerely and deeply.

Folk Music and Traditional Songs

Vietnamese folk music is diverse with many different genres such as Quan Ho, Cheo, Cai Luong,… Each region has its own unique folk songs, reflecting the cultural characteristics of that locality. The smooth, profound melodies of folk songs have entered people’s hearts, becoming an indispensable part of the nation’s spiritual life.

Festivals and Customs

Traditional festivals are opportunities for people to express their gratitude to their ancestors, praying for a good and prosperous new year. Each festival has its own ceremonies, games, and characteristic dishes. From the bustling Tet Nguyen Dan festival to the solemn Hung Kings Temple festival, each festival has its own beauty, showing the national cultural identity.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

In the present era, preserving and promoting folklore is extremely important. We need specific measures to preserve and pass on to future generations the precious cultural values of the nation. Organizing cultural and artistic activities, traditional education… are effective ways to achieve this goal. The vibrant tapestry of Vietnamese folklore continues to enrich and inspire, reminding us of the enduring strength and beauty of a culture passed down through centuries.