Vietnamese Folklore: Richness and Enduring Value

Overview of Vietnamese Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is a vast treasure trove, preserving the spiritual, moral, and aesthetic values of the nation through generations. It is expressed in diverse and rich forms, from legends, fairy tales, proverbs, folk songs, to folk art forms such as water puppetry, hat xam, and cheo. Each form carries a profound meaning, reflecting the life, thoughts, feelings, and worldview of the Vietnamese people.

Legends and Fairy Tales: Origins and Lessons

Legends:

Legends usually tell about historical figures and real events, embellished with fantastical and mysterious elements. They explain the origin of objects and natural phenomena, reflecting the aspirations and ideals of the community. For example, the legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, tells of the battle between the Mountain God and the Water God, representing the ancient Vietnamese people’s dream of conquering nature.

Fairy Tales:

Fairy tales focus on imaginary, extraordinary characters, often with elements of good and evil, right and wrong, representing moral lessons and lifestyles. Fairy tales such as Tam Cam and Thach Sanh have become an integral part of the childhood of many generations of Vietnamese people, teaching us lessons about kindness, justice, and the triumph of good over evil.

Proverbs, Folk Songs, and Traditional Music: The Heart of the Nation

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that encapsulate the life experiences of the people. They often have an educational nature, guiding people on how to behave in life. For example: “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Remember the one who planted the tree when you eat the fruit), “Một cây làm chẳng nên non, ba cây chụm lại nên hòn núi cao” (One tree cannot make a forest, three trees gathered make a mountain).

Folk songs and traditional music express the feelings, thoughts, and aspirations of the working people. The sweet and soulful melodies of folk music have touched the hearts of people and become an indispensable part of Vietnamese culture. Folk songs about love for the homeland, country, and family have created the enduring vitality of folk culture.

The Value and Significance of Vietnamese Folklore

Folklore is not only a precious cultural heritage but also an endless source of inspiration for art, literature, and other fields. It contributes to educating and shaping people’s character, awakening patriotism, and national pride. The preservation and promotion of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen, so that future generations can continue to inherit these precious spiritual values.

Preserving and promoting folklore is our responsibility!