Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Origins: The Roots of Culture

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure, passed down through thousands of years of history. Legends and origin stories not only explain the origins of natural phenomena but also reflect the worldview and philosophy of the Vietnamese people. From the legend of Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh (Mountain God – Water God), the Dragon and Fairy tale, to stories about national heroes, each tale carries a profound message, promoting patriotism, solidarity, and the indomitable spirit of the nation.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: Life’s Philosophy in Verse

Proverbs and folk songs are the essence of folk wisdom, distilled from daily life experiences. Sweet and soulful folk songs express family affection, love, friendship, and patriotism. Proverbs, concise and insightful, contain valuable lessons about morality, agricultural practices, and social interactions. “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (Remember the one who planted the tree when you eat the fruit), and “Một con ngựa đau cả tàu bỏ cỏ” (One sick horse spoils the whole herd) are prime examples of the wisdom and depth of ancient Vietnamese thought.

Folk Music and Festivals: The Sounds and Colors of Life

Vietnamese folk music is diverse and rich, ranging from the smooth, soulful melodies of different regions to the cheerful songs of festivals. Each folk song has its unique character, reflecting the cultural beauty of each locality. Traditional festivals are major community events, signifying wishes for bountiful harvests and national prosperity. The dances and folk games in festivals create a lively and festive atmosphere, showcasing the strong community spirit of the Vietnamese people.

Some Notable Festivals:

• Hung Kings Temple Festival
• Go Gang Festival
• Central Highlands Gong Festival

Folk Arts: Enduring Vitality

Vietnamese folk art is expressed in many rich forms: Dong Ho folk paintings, Hang Trong paintings, Bat Trang ceramics, embroidery… Each artwork is imbued with traditional cultural imprints, showcasing the talent and skill of the artisans. These works are not only artistic products but also historical evidence, contributing to the richness of Vietnamese folklore.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

In the modern era, preserving and promoting folklore is crucial. We need specific policies and measures to protect and preserve traditional cultural values, while also introducing and promoting Vietnamese folklore to the world, contributing to raising Vietnam’s status internationally. Educating the younger generation about folklore is an important task, helping them understand their national origins and be proud of their country.