Vietnamese Folklore: Richness and Diversity

A Treasure Trove of Legends and Fairy Tales

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure, passed down through thousands of years of history. Legends and fairy tales are integral parts, reflecting the rich imagination, philosophy of life, and worldview of the Vietnamese people. From stories about the formation of the country, the origins of rivers, to tales of love, courage, and wisdom, all contribute to a multi-colored cultural picture.

For example: The story of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh depicts the struggle between humans and nature, reflecting the Vietnamese aspiration to conquer nature. The story of Saint Giong speaks of patriotism and the courageous spirit of defending the country. These stories are not merely entertainment but carry profound educational significance.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Traditional Music

Folk songs, proverbs, and traditional music are distinctive forms of folklore, reflecting the wisdom, life experiences, and emotions of the people. Folk songs are often lyrical, expressing deep emotions such as love for one’s homeland, love between couples, and family affection. Proverbs are short, concise sayings, summarizing life experiences and moral lessons.

For example: “A father’s love is like Mount Thái Sơn/ A mother’s love is like water from a flowing spring” is a folk song expressing the immense contributions of parents. “When eating the fruit, remember the one who planted the tree” is a proverb teaching gratitude.

Traditional music is songs passed down through generations, reflecting the lives and emotions of the people. Each region has its own unique melodies, creating the diversity and richness of Vietnamese folklore.

Festivals and Customs

Festivals and customs are important cultural activities reflecting the beliefs, customs, and spiritual life of the people. Each festival has its own unique features, showing the cultural diversity between regions. Traditional festivals are not only opportunities for entertainment but also times to commemorate heroes, historical figures, and to pray for good harvests and national prosperity.

For example: Hung Temple Festival, Giong Festival, Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) are all important traditional festivals of the Vietnamese people.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is an important task for every Vietnamese citizen. Protecting and developing traditional cultural values will contribute to enriching the national cultural identity and creating spiritual strength for the country.