Vietnamese Folklore: Richness and Diversity
Overview of Vietnamese Folklore
Vietnamese folklore is an invaluable treasure trove, reflecting the history, soul, and intellect of the nation. It has been passed down through generations through various forms such as legends, fairy tales, proverbs, folk songs, folk music, festivals, and traditional games. Each region has its own unique characteristics, creating a diverse and rich tapestry of folklore.
Legends and Fairy Tales: Stories about Origins and History
Legends often tell stories about historical figures and events, either real or fictionalized based on historical events. They carry educational meaning, explaining the origin of natural and social phenomena. Examples include the legend of Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh, and the legends of Trung Trac and Trung Nhi…
Fairy tales often feature imaginary characters and extraordinary stories, serving entertainment and educational purposes. Fairy tales typically have happy endings, reflecting dreams of justice, happiness, and the triumph of good over evil. Examples include Tam Cam, Thach Sanh, and So Dua…
Proverbs, Folk Songs, and Folk Music: The Voice of the National Soul
Proverbs are short, concise sayings that encapsulate the life experiences of the people. They are often general, easy to remember and understand, for example, “One tree doesn’t make a forest”, “Eat the fruit, remember the one who planted the tree”…
Folk songs (Ca dao) are lyrical poems, often used in daily life. They reflect the feelings, views on life, and aspirations of the Vietnamese people. Examples include “Pity the fate of the silkworm”, “Our hands create everything”…
Folk music (Dan ca) is a genre of folk music, often sung during festivals, folk games, or in daily life. Folk music expresses the feelings, thoughts, and desires of the people, for example, Ho keo mung, Ly cay da…
Traditional Festivals: A Combination of Beliefs and Culture
Traditional festivals are an indispensable part of Vietnamese folklore. They reflect the beliefs, customs, and spiritual and cultural life of the people. Each festival has its own unique features, attracting the participation of a large number of people. Examples include the Hung Temple Festival, the Buffalo Fighting Festival, and the Cau Ngu Festival…
Preserving and Promoting the Value of Folklore
Preserving and promoting the value of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need concrete measures to preserve and develop folklore, contributing to enriching the spiritual life of the nation. This includes researching, collecting, preserving, and passing on to future generations the precious cultural values of the nation.