Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: A Source of Creativity

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving stories, songs, proverbs, and customs passed down through generations. Legends and fairy tales, stories about historical figures, mythology, and exciting adventures, reflect the rich imagination and aspirations for justice and righteousness of the Vietnamese people. These stories are not only entertaining but also carry profound educational meanings, teaching lessons about morality, compassion, and perseverance.

For example: The legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, a tragic love story between Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, depicts the struggle between humans and nature, and the human desire to conquer nature.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: The Philosophy of Life of a Nation

Proverbs and folk songs are valuable lessons about life experiences and the philosophy of life of the Vietnamese people. Short and concise proverbs summarize lessons about life, love, and humanity. Folk songs, with their melodious and poignant melodies, express the deep emotions of the people towards their homeland, country, love, and family.

For example: The proverb “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Those who eat the fruit should remember those who planted the tree) teaches us about gratitude. The folk song “Thương thay thân phận con tằm/ Kiếm ăn được mấy phải nằm chịu tang” (Pity the silkworm’s fate/ How little it earns before it dies) expresses sympathy for the unfortunate.

Folk Music: The Songs of the Homeland

Vietnamese folk music is diverse and rich, ranging from sweet folk melodies to dramatic opera and traditional theatre. Each region has its own folk melodies, reflecting the unique cultural features of each locality. Folk music is not only a means of entertainment but also a bridge between people and people, between the past and the present.

For example: Hat Xoan (Phu Tho), Quan Ho (Bac Ninh), Southern folk songs… each genre has its own unique cultural identity.

Folk Art: The Skill of Hands

Vietnamese folk art is expressed in many different forms such as Dong Ho paintings, Bat Trang ceramics, embroidery, wood carving… These art products are not only beautiful but also carry cultural and historical values, showing the skill and finesse of Vietnamese artisans. This is also an indispensable part that contributes to creating the rich and diverse picture of Vietnamese folklore.

Preservation and Development of Folklore

The preservation and development of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn, understand, and spread these good cultural values to the younger generation, contributing to preserving and promoting the national cultural identity.