Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folk Culture

Legends and Myths: The Roots of Culture

Vietnamese folk culture is rich and diverse, passed down through generations, reflecting the history, society, and soul of the Vietnamese people. Legends and myths are an important part, explaining the origins of the country, its people, and natural phenomena. Stories of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, or the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake, are not just entertaining tales but also lessons about morality, courage, and intelligence. They reveal deep cultural values, passed down through generations.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Sayings: The Voice of the Vietnamese People

Folk songs, proverbs, and sayings are vivid evidence of the Vietnamese people’s intelligence and spirit. Folk songs, with their concise and evocative verses, express love for the homeland, family affection, and romantic love. Proverbs, with their short, image-rich phrases, contain life experiences and philosophies. Folk music, with its melodious and fluctuating melodies, expresses the thoughts, feelings, and emotions of the people.

Some notable examples:

• Folk song: “A father’s love is like Mount Thai Son/ A mother’s love is like the ever-flowing spring”
• Proverb: “Those who eat the fruit should remember those who planted the tree”
• Folk music: Ho Quan Nam, Ho Nghe Tinh…

These creations are not only highly artistic but also a precious treasure trove of Vietnamese culture, history, and society.

Festivals: Unique Cultural Traits

Traditional festivals are an integral part of Vietnamese folk culture. From large festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), the Hung Kings Temple Festival, to smaller local festivals, each festival has its own meaning, reflecting the beliefs and customs of each region. Through festivals, people express their reverence for their ancestors and pray for good fortune and bountiful harvests.

Folk Art: A Sophisticated Combination

Vietnamese folk art is rich and diverse, including forms such as Dong Ho paintings, Hang Trong paintings, ceramics, embroidery, weaving… Each artwork is deeply imbued with traditional cultural imprints, demonstrating the skill and talent of the artisans. These products not only have aesthetic value but are also valuable keepsakes, preserving the cultural values of the nation.

Conclusion: Vietnamese folk culture is an invaluable treasure trove that needs to be preserved and promoted. Studying and researching folk culture not only helps us better understand the history and culture of our nation but also helps us preserve and develop the good values of our people.