Vietnamese Folklore: An Enduring Spiritual Heritage

Overview of Vietnamese Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, reflecting the history, society, soul, and intellect of the Vietnamese people through generations. It encompasses countless stories, songs, proverbs, folk songs, customs, festivals, folk performances… all contributing to a multi-colored picture of Vietnamese culture.

Legends and Fairy Tales: Origins and Meanings

Legends

Legends often tell of historical figures and events, fictionalized, exaggerated, and embellished with magical and fantastical elements. These stories not only explain the origins of natural objects and phenomena but also convey the moral and spiritual values of the nation. Examples include the legends of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, or the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake.

Fairy Tales

Fairy tales usually focus on imaginary, extraordinary characters who go through trials and tribulations to achieve happy endings. They are highly educational, teaching people about kindness, justice, courage, and perseverance. Fairy tales like Tam Cam and Thach Sanh have become an indispensable part of the childhood of many generations of Vietnamese people.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Skill in Language

Folk songs are short lyrical poems that express people’s feelings and thoughts about life, love, and homeland. The language of folk songs is close, easy to understand, rich in imagery and emotion. Proverbs are short, concise sayings containing deep meanings, drawn from the life experiences of the people. Both folk songs and proverbs reflect the rich wisdom and life experience of the Vietnamese people.

Traditional Festivals: The Intertwining of Beliefs and Culture

Traditional festivals are an important part of Vietnamese folklore. Each festival is often associated with a deity, a historical event, or an agricultural season. Festivals are not only occasions for fun and entertainment but also opportunities for people to remember their ancestors, pray for good luck, happiness, and abundant harvests. Some typical festivals include the Hung Kings Temple Festival, the Rice Flower Festival, and the Buffalo Fighting Festival…

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn and pass on to future generations the precious values of folklore. This not only helps preserve intangible cultural heritage but also contributes to educating young people about patriotism, national spirit, and the good values of humanity.