Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: A Source of Creativity

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving stories, songs, proverbs, and customs passed down through generations. Legends, with stories of heroes and mythologized historical events, reflect the nation’s aspirations and dreams. Fairy tales, with their clearly defined good and evil characters and profound moral lessons, educate young generations about right and wrong, justice, and fairness. The Legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh or the tale of Saint Giong are prime examples of the richness and diversity of Vietnamese fairy tales.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: The Wisdom of the People

Proverbs and folk songs are the essence of folk wisdom, encapsulated in short, concise sentences yet containing profound life lessons and insights into human nature. Proverbs often have a generalizing nature, reflecting life experiences and social concepts. Folk songs express people’s emotions, thoughts, and aspirations, particularly love for their homeland, country, and family. “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Remember the one who planted the tree when you eat its fruit) or “Công cha như núi Thái Sơn” (A father’s merit is like Mount Thái Sơn) are familiar proverbs with high educational value. The sweet, melodious folk songs like Quan Ho singing of Bac Ninh, Ca Tru reflect the delicate beauty of the Vietnamese soul.

Customs and Traditions: Distinctive Cultural Identity

Customs and traditions are the characteristic cultural features of each region, reflecting the diversity and richness of Vietnamese culture. From traditional festivals like Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year), Hung King Temple Festival to wedding and funeral customs, all reflect the moral values and beliefs of the Vietnamese people. Rain-praying festivals and rice-planting festivals demonstrate the close bond between people and nature.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. Researching, collecting, and disseminating traditional cultural values helps young generations understand their national origins and prevents folklore from fading away in the modern era. The combination of tradition and modernity will help folklore continue to develop and shine.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is an invaluable treasure, reflecting the history, soul, and intellect of the nation. Exploring and learning about folklore not only helps us understand the past better but also helps us cherish, preserve, and promote traditional cultural values for future generations.