Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Mythology: The Roots of Culture

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving mysterious stories, legends, and myths that reflect the worldview, philosophy of life, and aspirations of the Vietnamese people for generations. Stories of Son Tinh, Thuy Tinh, or the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake are not just entertaining tales but also lessons about courage, intelligence, and the spirit of national protection. Vietnamese mythology is also diverse with gods, demons, reflecting the interplay between indigenous beliefs and external influences.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Wisdom of the People

Folk songs and proverbs are precious gems in the treasure trove of folklore. Short and concise folk songs express the deep feelings of people towards their homeland, country, love, and family. Proverbs, with their brevity and conciseness, are valuable lessons about life, life experience, and the philosophy of life. The wisdom of the people is clearly shown through each verse, each proverb, conveying moral and spiritual values that need to be preserved and promoted.

Festivals and Customs: The Richness of Culture

Traditional festivals are an integral part of Vietnamese folklore. Each festival has its own meaning, linked to the history, beliefs, and customs of each region. Festivals such as Tet Nguyen Dan, Hung Temple Festival, or rain and wind-praying festivals demonstrate the close bond between the Vietnamese people and nature and community life. Customs and traditions also reflect the diversity and richness of the culture, from wedding and funeral ceremonies to daily life practices.

Folk Art: Unlimited Creativity

Vietnamese folk art demonstrates the talent and creativity of the people through many different forms: Dong Ho paintings, Hang Trong paintings, ceramics, traditional embroidery, folk musical instruments… Each artwork is imbued with the imprint of traditional culture, showing the sophistication, dexterity, and deep understanding of the culture of the artisans. These intangible cultural heritages need to be preserved and promoted to enrich the national cultural identity.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. Preserving traditional cultural values is not only preserving the nation’s heritage but also preserving cultural identity, creating the distinctiveness and attraction of our country to international friends. We need specific policies and programs to preserve, promote, and introduce folklore to the world.