Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: Origins and Meanings

Vietnamese folklore is a rich and diverse treasure trove, reflecting the history, life, and soul of the Vietnamese people through generations. Legends and fairy tales, with their magical and captivating stories, not only entertain but also carry profound educational meanings. Stories about Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, or those about the formation of the country, about courage, intelligence, are valuable lessons about morality, patriotism, and the indomitable spirit of the nation.

Famous Legends:

The Legend of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh: The story depicts the struggle between humans and nature, the ambition to conquer nature of the ancient Vietnamese people.

The Legend of Saint Giong: The story of a heroic warrior fighting foreign invaders, demonstrating the patriotism and unwavering spirit of the nation.

The Legend of Chu Dong Tu and Tien Dung: A beautiful love story, reflecting the accumulation of virtue and doing good deeds.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Traditional Music: The Wisdom of the People

Folk songs, proverbs, and traditional music are concise and succinct forms of folk literature, yet incredibly profound. They reflect the philosophy of life, life experiences, emotions, and beliefs of the working people. Folk songs about love for the homeland and country, about family affection, and friendship, all demonstrate the subtlety and emotionality of the Vietnamese people.

Noteworthy Folk Songs and Proverbs:

“A father’s love is like Mount Thai Son/ A mother’s love is like the flowing water from a spring” – This proverb illustrates the immense contributions of parents.

“One tree doesn’t make a forest/ Three trees together make a high mountain” – This proverb speaks of the power of unity.

“Pity the fate of the silkworm/ How much can it eat before it spins and dies?” – This folk song shows sympathy for the fate of the working people.

Folk Art: Limitless Creativity

Vietnamese folk art is also extremely rich, from Dong Ho paintings, Hang Trong paintings, ceramics, embroidery, to various art forms such as water puppetry and Ca Tru singing… Each artwork bears a strong cultural imprint, demonstrating the talent and skill of the artisans.

Folk culture is an indispensable part of the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people. Preserving and promoting the values of folk culture is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen, so that future generations can inherit and be proud of a culture rich in national identity.