Vietnamese Folklore: A Precious Spiritual Heritage
A Treasure Trove of Legends and Fairy Tales
Vietnamese folklore is a vast treasure trove reflecting the history, society, and soul of the Vietnamese people through generations. Legends, with their mysterious stories about the origins of the country, heroes, and deities, are an indispensable part. These stories not only entertain but also teach people about morality, courage, and justice. Fairy tales, with familiar characters like Tam and Cam, or Thach Sanh, offer lessons about good and evil, justice, and perseverance. We are inspired by the intelligence, talent, and kindness of the protagonists, while being wary of cunning and greed.
Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Wisdom of the People
Folk songs (Ca dao), with their sweet and profound melodies, express love for the homeland, family affection, and romantic love. They are the voice of the people, reflecting daily life with its joys, sorrows, hopes, and aspirations. Proverbs (Tục ngữ), with their concise and succinct sentences, contain valuable life experiences accumulated over generations. They are lessons on morality, lifestyle, and behavior in life.
Festivals and Customs
Vietnamese folklore is also clearly reflected in festivals and customs. Each festival has its own meaning, linked to history, beliefs, and community life. From boisterous spring festivals to solemn religious festivals, all contribute to a diverse and rich cultural picture. Customs, such as ceremonies in weddings and funerals, or customs in agriculture, show the close bond between people, nature, and the community.
Preservation and Development of Folklore
In the present day, preserving and developing folklore is extremely important. We need effective measures to preserve these precious cultural values for future generations. Researching, collecting, compiling, and disseminating works of folklore is one of the urgent tasks. Organizing cultural and artistic activities to promote folklore is also a way to attract public interest, especially among young people.
Conclusion: Vietnamese folklore is an indispensable part of the national cultural identity. Preserving and developing folklore is not only the responsibility of researchers but also the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. Let’s join hands to preserve and promote these precious cultural values to enrich the spiritual life of the nation.