Vietnamese Folklore: Enduring Identity and Values

Overview of Vietnamese Folklore

Vietnamese folklore is a rich and diverse treasure trove accumulated over thousands of years of history. It encompasses various genres such as legends, fairy tales, proverbs, folk songs, riddles, folk music, folk dance, and folk performing arts. Each genre carries unique cultural values, reflecting the spiritual life, worldview, and humanity of the Vietnamese people.

Legends: Origins and History

Legends often tell stories about historical figures, significant events, or wondrous natural phenomena. These stories not only explain the origins of things and events but also express the aspirations and dreams of the people. Examples such as the legend of the Dragon and Fairy, the legend of Saint Giong, and the legend of An Duong Vuong and Mi Chau – Trong Thuy are vivid evidence of this.

Fairy Tales: Education and Entertainment

Fairy tales typically revolve around imaginary characters, magical spells, and embody dreams of justice, happiness, and the triumph of good over evil. These stories are not only entertaining but also have educational value, teaching people about kindness, courage, intelligence, and compassion. Tam Cam, So Dua, and Thach Sanh are representative fairy tales of Vietnam.

Proverbs and Folk Songs: Summarizing Life

Proverbs are short, concise sayings that summarize the life experiences of the people. They often have an educational and advisory nature, guiding people on how to live, work, and behave. Folk songs are lyrical poems reflecting the feelings, thoughts, and lives of people. Both proverbs and folk songs are valuable treasures, demonstrating the wisdom and soul of the Vietnamese people.

The Value of Folklore

Folklore is not only a precious intangible cultural heritage of the nation but also an endless source of inspiration for art, literature, and other creative fields. The preservation and promotion of folklore are crucial in educating young generations about patriotism, national pride, and awareness of cultural heritage preservation.

Preservation and Promotion

Preserving and promoting the value of folklore requires the concerted efforts of the entire society. Researching, recording, publishing, and disseminating works of folk literature is essential. In addition, organizing cultural activities and traditional festivals also help bring folklore closer to the public.