Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

The Richness 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. From mysterious legends, sweet folk songs, concise proverbs full of life philosophies to vibrant festivals, all contribute to creating a diverse and rich cultural picture. This diversity reflects the rich geography, climate, and history of the country.

Legends and Mythology: Origins and Power

Legends in Vietnam often revolve around historical figures, major events, or mysterious natural phenomena. We have stories about national heroes like Saint Giong, Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh, or the origins of traditional craft villages. These stories not only entertain but also convey lessons about courage, intelligence, and solidarity. Mythology is more magical, with stories about gods, fairies, and demons, reflecting the worldview and spiritual world of the ancient Vietnamese.

Famous Legends:

• The Legend of the Dragon and Fairy
• The Legend of Son Tinh – Thuy Tinh
• The Legend of Saint Giong

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Idioms: Concise Life Philosophies

Folk songs (Ca dao) are short lyrical poems, often expressing family affection, love, or the beauty of nature. These folk songs are simple and close to life yet contain profound philosophies about life. Proverbs (Tục ngữ) are short, concise sayings that summarize the life experiences of the people. We can find in proverbs advice on behavior, morality, and lessons learned from life. Idioms (Thành ngữ) are fixed phrases, often used to describe an object, phenomenon, or specific situation.

Traditional Festivals: Cultural Colors

Traditional festivals are an indispensable part of Vietnamese folklore. Each festival has its own meaning, associated with beliefs, history, and community life. From bustling spring festivals to festivals praying for abundant harvests, all show the harmony between humans and nature and with ancestors.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

The preservation and promotion of folklore is an important responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively learn and pass on to future generations the precious values of the nation. This not only helps preserve cultural identity but also enriches the spiritual life of the community.