Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: Sources of Creativity

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving stories, songs, proverbs, and customs passed down through generations. Legends, with tales of gods, heroes, and fictionalized historical events, reflect the worldview and aspirations of the Vietnamese people. Fairy tales, with their clear-cut good and evil characters, teach moral lessons about kindness, compassion, and justice. Stories like Saint Giong, Son Tinh Thuy Tinh, Tam Cam have become an integral part of the memories of many generations.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: Folk Wisdom

Folk songs, with their lyrical and heartfelt melodies, express love for one’s homeland, family, and romantic relationships. These concise and memorable songs convey meaningful messages about life. Proverbs, with their concise and succinct sayings, encapsulate the life experiences of the people, reflecting philosophies of life and social values. “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Remember the one who planted the tree when you eat the fruit) and “Một cây làm chẳng nên non, ba cây chụm lại nên hòn núi cao” (One tree doesn’t make a mountain, three trees clustered together make a high mountain) are familiar proverbs that remain relevant today.

Customs and Traditions: Cultural Identity

Vietnamese customs and traditions are diverse and rich, reflecting the interplay of cultures and adaptation to natural conditions. Traditional festivals like Tet (Lunar New Year), Mid-Autumn Festival, and temple festivals demonstrate gratitude to ancestors and prayers for good fortune and happiness. Wedding and funeral customs reflect beliefs about family and society. The preservation and promotion of these customs contribute to preserving national cultural identity.

Folk Arts: Skill and Craftsmanship

Vietnamese folk art is renowned for its diversity and sophistication. From Dong Ho and Hang Trong folk paintings to Bat Trang ceramics, embroidery, and wood carving, each artwork is deeply imbued with the cultural imprint of different regions. These products not only have aesthetic value but also serve as testament to the talent and skill of the Vietnamese people.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is an important task for every Vietnamese citizen. Researching, collecting, and disseminating folk cultural heritage helps younger generations understand their history and traditions, contributing to building a civilized society rich in national identity.