Vietnamese Folklore: Exploring Origins and Values

Origins and Formation

Vietnamese folklore is a rich and diverse treasure trove, accumulated over thousands of years of history. It reflects the lives, thoughts, feelings, and philosophies of the Vietnamese people from ancient times to the present day. Legends, fairy tales, folk songs, proverbs, and traditional festivals are all vivid evidence of the richness and uniqueness of our country’s folklore. The formation of folklore is a long process, influenced by many factors such as natural conditions, history, society, and the cultures of other nations.

Legends and Fairy Tales: Life Lessons

Legends and fairy tales are two of the most popular and beloved genres of folklore. Legends often tell about historical figures, historical events, and explain the origins of objects and natural phenomena. Examples include the legend of Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh, the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake… Fairy tales, on the other hand, focus on imaginary, extraordinary characters, with the aim of educating about morals, compassion, and justice. Fairy tales such as Tam Cam, Thach Sanh… have become an indispensable part of the childhood memories of many generations of Vietnamese people.

Lessons from Fairy Tales:

• Good always triumphs over evil
• Fairness and righteousness will be rewarded
• Kindness and selflessness are always appreciated

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Wisdom of the People

Folk songs and proverbs are concise and succinct genres of folklore that express the intelligence and life experiences of the people. Folk songs are often lyrical, expressing family affection, love, and neighborhood relationships. Proverbs, on the other hand, are philosophical, summarizing life experiences and lessons about ethics and society. Both folk songs and proverbs contribute to enriching the vocabulary and language culture of the Vietnamese people.

Traditional Festivals: Community Connections

Traditional festivals are community-based cultural activities that express the people’s beliefs and aspirations for a better life. Each festival is often associated with legends and unique customs, reflecting the spiritual life and beliefs of the Vietnamese people. Famous festivals such as the Gioi Festival, Lim Festival, and Buffalo Fighting Festival are all unique cultural features that attract numerous domestic and international tourists.

Values and Significance of Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is not only a priceless cultural heritage treasure but also an endless source of inspiration for artists, writers, and poets. It helps educate the younger generation about traditions, ethics, and lifestyles, fostering patriotism and national pride. Preserving and promoting the value of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen.