Vietnamese Folklore: Origins and Values

Origins and Formation

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure, accumulated over thousands of years of history, reflecting the spiritual, material life, and beliefs of the Vietnamese people. It encompasses a rich variety of genres, including: legends, myths, fairy tales, folk songs, proverbs, folk music, folk dances, and folk games… Each genre carries its own unique values, contributing to a diverse and distinctive cultural landscape.

The formation of Vietnamese folklore is influenced by many factors, including historical, geographical, social, and cultural elements of different communities. Stories passed down orally through generations have become an indispensable part of the lives of the people.

The Value of Folklore

Preserving National Identity

Folklore is a vivid testament to Vietnamese cultural identity. It reflects the spirit, character, morality, and lifestyle of the Vietnamese people. Through stories, songs, and dances, we gain a deeper understanding of our history, our national origins, and consequently, a stronger love for our homeland.

Education and Character Building

Many fairy tales and legends are not only entertaining but also contain profound lessons about morality and lifestyle. These stories educate young generations about courage, intelligence, compassion, and perseverance…

Source of Creative Inspiration

Folklore is an endless source of inspiration for artists, writers, and musicians… Many modern literary and artistic works draw inspiration from familiar stories and images in folklore.

Preservation and Promotion

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn, explore, share, and pass on these precious values to future generations. Organizing cultural events and traditional festivals will contribute to the preservation and promotion of folklore effectively.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is an invaluable treasure that needs to be preserved and promoted. Understanding and appreciating folklore not only helps us understand ourselves better but also contributes to building a civilized and prosperous society.