Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

A Precious Legacy

Vietnamese folklore is a rich and diverse treasure trove, passed down through thousands of years of history. From mythical fairy tales and sweet folk songs to concise proverbs and vibrant traditional festivals, all reflect the spiritual life, soul, and intellect of the Vietnamese people.

Legends and Fairy Tales: Origins and Meanings

Legends:

Legends often tell of historical figures, major events, or extraordinary natural phenomena. They are not merely entertaining stories but also carry educational significance, awakening patriotism and the spirit of fighting against oppression and injustice. For example, the legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh reflects the struggle between humans and nature, while the legend of Saint Giong embodies the indomitable will of the nation.

Fairy Tales:

Fairy tales typically revolve around imaginary, extraordinary characters, serving both educational and entertainment purposes. Through fairy tales, the ancients conveyed lessons about morality, compassion, justice, and dreams of a better life. Characters like Tam and Cam, or Thach Sanh, have become familiar icons in Vietnamese folklore.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Wisdom of the People

Folk songs are short poems, often lyrical, reflecting emotions, love for the homeland, family affection. With simple, relatable language, folk songs have resonated deeply within people, becoming an integral part of Vietnamese cultural life.

Proverbs are short, concise sayings summarizing the life experiences of the people. Proverbs not only convey information but also demonstrate sophistication and depth in perceiving life. For example, the saying “With diligence, even iron can be ground into a needle” reflects the spirit of perseverance and persistence.

Traditional Festivals: The Vibrancy of Culture

Traditional festivals are distinctive cultural activities reflecting the spiritual and cultural life of the community. Each festival is often associated with a legend, a historical figure, or an important event. Participation in these festivals not only helps us understand more about folklore but also fosters community cohesion.

Preserving and Developing Folklore

Preserving and developing folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn and pass on to future generations the precious values of folklore, contributing to preserving and promoting national cultural identity.