Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Beliefs

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure, passed down through thousands of years of history. Legends and myths reflect a rich imagination and a deep understanding of nature and humanity. From the legend of Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh, which embodies the ancient Vietnamese desire to conquer nature, to the fairy tale Tam Cam, which reflects the longing for justice and the triumph of good over evil, each story is a valuable lesson in morality and life.

Folk beliefs also play an important role, manifested in traditional festivals and the worship of ancestors and deities. These festivals are not only occasions for fun and entertainment but also opportunities for community bonding and remembrance of origins.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Idioms

Folk songs, proverbs, and idioms are precious gems in the treasure trove of folk literature. The sweet and poignant folk songs express family affection, love, and the aspirations of the people. Proverbs and idioms, concise and succinct, contain life experiences and valuable lessons on morality and behavior.

For example: “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Remember the person who planted the tree when you eat the fruit) is a proverb that expresses gratitude, and “Chớ thấy sóng cả mà ngã tay chèo” (Don’t drop your oars when you see the big waves) advises people to persevere and overcome difficulties.

Folk Art

Vietnamese folk art is incredibly rich and diverse, ranging from Dong Ho paintings and Hang Trong paintings to Bat Trang ceramics and traditional musical instruments like the dan bau, dan nguyet, and bamboo flute. Each work of art carries the soul of the nation, reflecting the talent and skill of the artisans.

Dong Ho paintings with their familiar images of Vietnamese villages, and Bat Trang ceramics with their delicate lines, are testaments to the unceasing creativity of the Vietnamese people.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. Researching, collecting, and introducing the values of folklore to the public is essential to preserving and developing national cultural identity.

Educating the younger generation about folklore is one of the important measures to preserve and promote traditional cultural values.