Vietnamese Folklore: Enduring Identity and Values

Overview of Vietnamese Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving the spiritual, moral, and aesthetic values of the nation throughout thousands of years of history. It manifests in diverse and abundant forms, such as legends, myths, fairy tales, folk songs, proverbs, riddles, folk games, traditional festivals, folk architecture, and folk art. Each form carries profound messages, reflecting the lives, thoughts, feelings, and philosophies of the Vietnamese people.

Legends and Myths: Origins and Significance

Legends and myths are stories passed down through generations, explaining the origins of natural phenomena, humans, and society. These stories often have a magical and mystical nature, yet they contain profound lessons about morality, courage, intelligence, and patriotism. For example, the legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, the legend of Lac Long Quan and Au Co, reflect the Vietnamese people’s desire to conquer nature and their aspiration to build and protect their country.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Riddles: Linguistic Sophistication

Folk songs, proverbs, and riddles are concise forms of folk literature that contain deep meanings. Folk songs express emotions, thoughts, love for the homeland, family affection, and romantic love. Proverbs are short sayings that summarize life experiences and philosophies. Riddles train intelligence, quickness, and observation skills.

Traditional Festivals: The Interplay of Culture and Belief

Traditional festivals are distinctive cultural activities that reflect the beliefs and customs of the Vietnamese people. Each festival has its own rituals, games, and activities, creating a diverse and rich cultural picture. For example, the Giong Festival, the Hung Temple Festival, and the Tet Nguyen Dan Festival all have spiritual, educational, and entertainment significance.

Preserving and Promoting the Value of Folklore

Preserving and promoting the value of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to take proactive measures to preserve and develop these precious cultural heritages and teach younger generations to understand and appreciate their national culture. This can be done through activities such as organizing traditional festivals, teaching folklore in schools, publishing books, films, and documentaries about folklore…