Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: Origins and Significance

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving stories, songs, proverbs, and beliefs passed down through generations. Legends and fairy tales, two prominent genres of folk literature, reflect the worldview, philosophy of life, and aspirations of the Vietnamese people. Stories of Son Tinh, Thuy Tinh, or Tam and Cam, not only entertain but also carry profound lessons about courage, justice, and the meaning of good and evil.

Example: The legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh depicts the struggle between humans and nature, between human strength and the ferocity of nature. The fairy tale of Tam and Cam tells of the triumph of good over evil, and that justice will ultimately prevail.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Wisdom and Subtlety of the Folk

Folk songs and proverbs are clear evidence of the subtlety and wisdom of the Vietnamese people. Short and concise folk songs express family affection, love, or philosophies about life. Proverbs, with their brevity and conciseness, contain valuable life experiences accumulated over generations.

Example: The folk song “A father’s love is like Mount Thai Son, a mother’s love is like the ever-flowing spring water” illustrates the immense contributions of parents. The proverb “A straight tree is not afraid to die standing” speaks of integrity and uprightness.

Beliefs and Festivals: The Connection Between Humans and Nature

Beliefs and festivals are an integral part of Vietnamese folklore. From large festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), to smaller, more local festivals, all reflect the close bond between humans and nature, as well as the people’s reverence for gods and national heroes.

Example: The Hung Kings Temple Festival demonstrates the nation’s gratitude to the Hung Kings. Smaller village festivals showcase community unity and solidarity.

Preservation and Development of Folklore

Preserving and developing folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. Recording, researching, and passing on these cultural values to future generations is crucial to maintaining national identity.

Conclusion: Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure, an endless source of creative inspiration. Exploring and discovering the beauty of folklore not only helps us understand more about our nation’s history and culture but also allows us to cherish and preserve these valuable assets for generations to come.