Vietnamese Folklore: A Deep Dive into Traditions

A Priceless Treasure

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving the spiritual, moral, and aesthetic values of the nation through generations. From mysterious mythological stories, heartfelt and evocative folk songs, to concise and meaningful proverbs, all reflect the life, thoughts, feelings, and intelligence of the Vietnamese people.

Mythology and Legends: The Origins of the Universe and Humanity

Vietnamese mythology, with its stories of gods, demons, and heroes, creates a vivid picture of the worldview and philosophy of the ancients. These stories not only explain the origins of the earth, sky, and humanity but also convey moral lessons and high ideals. The images of Lac Long Quan and Au Co, Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, are always retold through generations, demonstrating the close bond between people and nature.

Fairy Tales: Dreams and Reality

Fairy tales are an indispensable part of folklore, providing lessons about kindness, justice, and the triumph of righteousness. Familiar characters like Tam Cam, Thach Sanh, and So Dua have become cultural icons, passed down through generations and recreated in various forms.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Voice of the Nation

Folk songs (Ca dao) are short lyrical poems expressing love for one’s homeland, family affection, and romantic love. With simple and understandable language, folk songs have touched the hearts of the Vietnamese people and become an indispensable part of the nation’s spiritual life. Proverbs (Tục ngữ) are short, concise sayings summarizing the life experiences of the people. Proverbs not only reflect life philosophies but also serve as an endless source of inspiration for literature and art.

Traditional Festivals: The Harmony Between People and Beliefs

Traditional festivals are distinctive cultural activities reflecting the beliefs and customs of the Vietnamese people. Each festival has its unique meaning, linked to the history, traditions, and beliefs of each region. These festivals are not only occasions for people to play and relax but also opportunities to maintain 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 and pass on these precious cultural values to future generations. Integrating folklore into education, art, and tourism will contribute to enriching the nation’s spiritual life and promoting the country’s image to international friends.