Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: The Roots of National Strength

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving stories, legends, proverbs, folk songs, and festivals spanning thousands of years of history. Fairy tales like Tam Cam and Son Tinh Thuy Tinh are not just entertaining stories but also reflect the worldview, morality, and aspirations of the Vietnamese people. We find in them lessons about good and evil, justice, and the endurance of righteousness. The imagery of banyan trees, wells, and village communal houses – familiar images in folk literature – demonstrates the close bond between people and nature and the community.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: The Heartbeat of the Nation

Proverbs, short and concise sayings, encapsulate the life experiences of our ancestors over many generations. From familiar proverbs like “Remember the one who planted the tree when you eat its fruit” and “One sick horse spoils the whole pasture,” we see the emphasis on morality, humanity, and community cohesion. Folk songs, with their smooth and lyrical six-eight lines, express the deep emotions of the Vietnamese people: love for their homeland, love for couples, and family affection… Folk songs are the heartbeat of the nation, a melodious song echoing through generations.

Traditional Festivals: The Vibrancy of Culture

Traditional festivals like the Gio Ong festival, Lim festival, and Huong Pagoda festival… are not only opportunities for recreation but also occasions for the community to remember history, celebrate heroes, and pray for good fortune and bountiful harvests. Each festival has its own unique character, reflecting the culture and beliefs of different regions, creating a diverse and rich picture of folk culture.

Intangible Cultural Heritage: The Living Museum of the Nation

Vietnamese folklore has been recognized by UNESCO for numerous intangible cultural heritage items, such as water puppetry, Ca Tru singing, and Xoan singing… These are clear evidence of the uniqueness and value of traditional culture. Preserving and promoting these heritages is not only the responsibility of individuals and organizations but also of the entire society, to preserve and develop the precious cultural treasures of the nation.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is an endless source of inspiration for art, literature, and life. Understanding and preserving folklore is essential to maintaining national identity and educating the younger generation with patriotism and national pride.