Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

A Rich and Diverse Heritage

Vietnamese folklore is an invaluable treasure trove, reflecting the history, soul, and intellect of the Vietnamese people through generations. From mysterious legends to sweet folk songs, from melodious folk music to vibrant festivals, all contribute to a multi-colored and captivating cultural landscape.

Legends: Stories Passed Down Through Time

Legends are an integral part of folklore, containing fantastical stories about the origins of the country, heroes, and mysterious natural phenomena. These stories not only explain the origins of objects and phenomena but also convey moral values, lifestyles, and beliefs of the Vietnamese people. For example, the legends of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, or the legend of the watermelon’s origin… all carry profound messages about nature, humanity, and society.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Voice of the Nation

Folk songs and proverbs are concise and succinct forms of folk literature, reflecting the life, emotions, and thoughts of the people. Folk songs express love for the homeland, family affection, romantic love… with simple, memorable verses. Proverbs are short, concise sayings, derived from life experiences, containing valuable lessons about life, people, and society.

Folk Music: The Music of the Soul

Folk music is a traditional art form of music, diverse in themes, styles, and regions. Each region has its characteristic folk melodies, reflecting the culture and customs of that locality. Folk music is not only a form of entertainment but also a means of transmitting stories, lessons, and life experiences of the people.

Festivals: Shared Joy of the Community

Festivals are community cultural activities, often associated with beliefs, religions, history, or seasons. Festivals are not only occasions for people to play and relax but also opportunities to preserve and promote traditional cultural values. Each festival has its own unique features, creating the diversity and richness of Vietnamese culture.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn and pass on to future generations the valuable assets of folklore to protect and develop the national cultural identity.