Vietnamese Folklore: Origins and Values

Overview of Vietnamese Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is an incredibly rich and diverse treasure trove, reflecting the spiritual and material life of the Vietnamese people for generations. It has been passed down through numerous generations, not only through storytelling and songs, but also through rituals, customs, traditions, architecture, and cuisine… All of this creates a vibrant and distinctive cultural picture, contributing to the unique identity of the nation.

Legends and Mythology

Mysterious Tales

Legends and mythology are an integral part of folklore. Stories about gods, heroes, sacred animals… not only explain the origins of the universe and humanity, but also convey moral lessons and aspirations for a better life. For example, the legend of the Dragon and Fairy, Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, or stories about the origins of famous landmarks… are all vivid examples of the rich imagination and creativity of the Vietnamese people.

Folk Songs, Proverbs, and Idioms

Treasury of Folk Wisdom

Folk songs, proverbs, and idioms are concise and succinct forms of folk literature that contain profound lessons about life, love, and morality… Folk songs express people’s emotions and thoughts, while proverbs and idioms are life lessons accumulated over generations. The diversity of themes and forms of expression in these genres demonstrates the richness and sophistication of the Vietnamese language and thought.

Folk Arts

The Colors of Tradition

Vietnamese folk art is equally diverse, from Dong Ho paintings, Hang Trong paintings, to traditional musical instruments, various forms of puppetry, Ca Tru… Each art form has its own unique characteristics, reflecting the spiritual life and aesthetics of the people in different regions. These are not simply art products, but also precious cultural heritages that need to be preserved and promoted.

Conclusion

Vietnamese folklore is an invaluable resource, a historical testament, and the spiritual foundation of the nation. The preservation and promotion of the values of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen, so that future generations can continue to inherit and develop these beautiful values.