Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

A Rich and Diverse Heritage

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving the spiritual, moral, and aesthetic values of the nation throughout thousands of years of history. From mythological fairy tales and lyrical folk songs to vibrant traditional festivals, all reflect a vivid picture of the life, soul, and imagination of the Vietnamese people.

Legends and Fairy Tales: Origins and Power

Legends often tell of historical figures and real events embellished with magical and mystical elements. Examples include the legend of Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh, the Sword Lake legend, or legends about national heroes. Fairy tales, on the other hand, focus on imaginative stories, often featuring magic, good and evil characters, reflecting the dreams, aspirations, and moral lessons of the people.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Folk Music: The Voice of the People’s Heart

Folk songs (Ca dao) are short poems, lyrical in nature, reflecting the emotional lives and thoughts of people. Proverbs (Tục ngữ) are concise and pithy sayings, summarizing life experiences and reflecting the nation’s philosophy of life. Folk music (Dân ca) are traditional songs, passed down through generations, associated with labor activities and community life.

Traditional Festivals: Connecting the Past and the Present

Traditional festivals are special cultural events, showcasing the beliefs, customs, and traditions of the people. Each festival has its unique rituals and activities, imbued with local characteristics. Festivals are not only occasions for fun and entertainment but also opportunities for descendants to remember their ancestors, preserve and promote traditional cultural values.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn, study, and share traditional cultural values with younger generations, contributing to enriching the nation’s cultural heritage.

Current efforts to preserve folklore include:

• Collecting and publishing works of folklore.
• Organizing cultural and artistic activities to recreate and promote folklore.
• Educating about folklore traditions in schools.
• Preserving intangible cultural heritage.

With the joint efforts of the community, Vietnamese folklore will continue to shine and contribute to the strength of the nation.