Vietnamese Folklore: Richness and Diversity

Origins and Significance

Vietnamese folklore is an invaluable treasure trove, reflecting the history, society, and soul of the Vietnamese people through generations. From fairy tales, legends, proverbs, folk songs, to folk art forms like water puppetry, chèo singing, and quan họ singing… all carry unique cultural values, contributing to the distinct identity of the nation.

Legends and Fairy Tales: Stories of Origins and Ideals

Legends often tell stories about historical figures, major events, and are closely associated with place names and customs. These stories not only explain the origins of objects and phenomena but also carry educational meaning, encouraging patriotism and the spirit of righteous struggle. Examples include the legend of Con Rong Chau Tien (Children of the Dragon and Fairy), the legend of Ho Guom (Sword Lake)…

Fairy tales focus on imaginary, extraordinary characters, reflecting people’s dreams and aspirations for justice and happiness. Good characters are always rewarded, while evil ones are punished. Fairy tales such as Tam Cam and Thach Sanh have become part of the childhood memories of many generations of Vietnamese people.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: The Wisdom and Emotion of the Nation

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that encapsulate life experiences and philosophies of the people. They often have an instructive and admonitory nature, guiding people towards good things. For example: “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (He who eats the fruit should remember the one who planted the tree), “Gần mực thì đen, gần đèn thì sáng” (Near ink, you become black; near a lamp, you become bright).

Folk songs are lyrical poems that express people’s emotions, thoughts, and aspirations. The content of folk songs is diverse, from love between couples, family affection, to love for homeland and country. Folk songs such as “Thân em như củ ấu gai” (My body is like a thorny jujube) and “Qua cầu gió cuốn, thấy người đẹp đăm chiêu” (Crossing the bridge, the wind blows, I see a beautiful girl lost in thought)… are clear evidence of the vibrant life of folk songs in the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people.

Folk Art: Sophistication and Creativity

Vietnamese folk art demonstrates the skill and creativity of the people in using natural materials to create unique products with high aesthetic value. Water puppetry, chèo singing, quan họ singing, and đờn ca tài tử… are not only entertainment art forms but also precious intangible cultural heritages that need to be preserved and promoted.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is a rich and diverse system of spiritual values, reflecting the history, culture, and soul of the nation. Preserving and promoting these values is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen, in order to preserve and develop the nation’s cultural identity.