Vietnamese Folklore: An Enduring Spiritual Treasure

Overview of Vietnamese Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving the spiritual values, ethics, and knowledge of the nation through generations. It encompasses a wide variety of genres, including legends, fairy tales, proverbs, folk songs, and other forms of folk art. Each genre reflects a different aspect of social life, the soul, and the intellect of the Vietnamese people.

Legends – Historical Imprints and Myths

Legends often tell of historical figures, momentous events, or wondrous natural phenomena, interwoven with mythical elements. These stories not only explain the origins of things and phenomena but also convey lessons about courage, righteousness, and the spirit of fighting against oppression. Examples include the legends of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, or the legend of An Duong Vuong and Mi Chau – Trong Thuy.

Fairy Tales – Dreams and Life Lessons

Fairy tales typically revolve around imaginary characters, extraordinary situations, and carry a high educational value. Through fairy tales, people pass down life experiences, lessons about morality, kindness, justice, and the triumph of good over evil. Characters like Tam and Cam, Thach Sanh, or the story of The Fisherman and the Golden Fish are typical examples.

Proverbs, Folk Songs – The Heart of the Nation

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that summarize the life experiences of the people. They are often general in nature, reflecting a philosophy of life, concepts about the world and people. Folk songs express the feelings, dreams, and aspirations of the people. They are often associated with labor activities, community life, and reflect the rich spiritual life of the Vietnamese people.

Folk Beliefs – The Interplay of Reality and Spirituality

Folk beliefs are an important part of Vietnamese culture. People believe in the existence of supernatural forces, deities, ghosts… These beliefs are manifested through festivals, rituals, and customs. The worship of ancestors, the belief in deities, or agricultural rituals are all clear evidence.

Preserving and Promoting the Value of Folklore

Preserving and promoting the value of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn, research, and disseminate these precious values to the younger generation. Organizing folk cultural and artistic activities, or incorporating folklore into school education are all effective measures.