Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Origins and Significance

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving stories, legends, proverbs, folk songs, mythology, and folk art spanning thousands of years of history. It reflects the lives, thoughts, feelings, and philosophies of the Vietnamese people, and is also a testament to the creativity and intelligence of the nation. From mythological stories about the origins of the country and its people to lyrical folk songs and concise proverbs, all contribute to a vibrant and diverse picture of folk culture.

Legends and Mythology

Legends in Vietnam often revolve around historical figures and major events, embellished with magical and mysterious elements. The stories of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, the legend of betel and areca nut, or legends about national heroes are all clear examples. Mythology is older, explaining the origins of the universe, nature, and humanity, reflecting the worldview of ancient Vietnamese people.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Idioms

Folk songs (Ca dao) are short poems, often passed down orally, reflecting the feelings and daily lives of the people. With simple language and familiar imagery, folk songs express deep emotions such as love for homeland and country, love between couples, and family affection. Proverbs (Tục ngữ) are short, concise sayings, summarizing life experiences and moral concepts of the people. Idioms (Thành ngữ) are phrases with symbolic meanings, often used to enrich the language.

Folk Art

Vietnamese folk art is incredibly rich and diverse, from Dong Ho paintings and Hang Trong paintings to traditional musical instruments, water puppetry, and traditional performing arts. All showcase the talent, skill, and creativity of the people. Each piece of folk art carries its own meaning, reflecting the culture, beliefs, and spiritual life of the Vietnamese.

Preservation and Promotion

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. Preserving, inheriting, and developing these cultural values is not only necessary to protect the national cultural heritage but also a way to educate the younger generation about traditions, history, and national identity. The development of modern society requires finding new and creative ways to convey these precious values to everyone, especially the younger generation.