Vietnamese Folklore: A Deep Dive into National Identity

Legends and Fairy Tales: The Roots of Culture

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, reflecting the history, soul, and intellect of the Vietnamese people over thousands of years. Legends and fairy tales, two of its most important components, tell of the origin of the country, its heroes, and lessons about morality and life. From the legend of Con Rong Chau Tien (Children of the Dragon and Fairy) explaining the origin of the nation, to stories about Saint Giong and Son Tinh Thuy Tinh (Mountain Spirit and Water Spirit), all carry profound meanings about patriotism, the struggle between good and evil, and the close bond with nature.

Lessons from Fairy Tales

Vietnamese fairy tales, with familiar characters like Tam and Cam, and the story of the hundred-jointed bamboo tree, not only entertain but also teach people about fairness, kindness, perseverance, and hope. These stories, passed down through generations by word of mouth, have become an indispensable part of the moral education of the Vietnamese people.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: The Skillful Use of Language

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that encapsulate the life experiences of the people. We can find in them lessons about labor, production, family affections, and society. For example: “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (He who eats the fruit should remember the one who planted the tree), “Một cây làm chẳng nên non, ba cây chụm lại nên hòn núi cao” (One tree doesn’t make a forest, three trees together make a mountain).

Folk songs (Ca dao), with their lyrical and smooth melodies, express the deep emotions of the Vietnamese people. From love between couples, family affection to love for the homeland, folk songs express themselves truthfully and movingly. Courtship songs, lullabies, and folk songs about labor all bear the strong cultural identity of Vietnam.

Folk Music: The Heartbeat of the Nation

Vietnamese folk music is diverse and rich, from sweet folk melodies to lively festival music. Each region has its own musical instruments and genres, reflecting the cultural characteristics of that area. Traditional musical instruments such as the dan bau, dan nguyet, and bamboo flute have become symbols of Vietnamese music.

Folk Art: The Skillful Hands of the Vietnamese People

Vietnamese folk art is expressed in many forms, from Dong Ho paintings and Hang Trong paintings to ceramics, embroidery, and carving… Each work carries within it the finesse, skill, and soul of the artisan. These products are not only works of art but also vivid evidence of the richness and diversity of Vietnamese culture.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is a rich system of spiritual values, reflecting the national identity and spirit. The preservation and promotion of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen to preserve and develop this precious cultural heritage for future generations.