Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Fairy Tales – The Roots of the National Soul

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure trove, preserving fairy tales, folk songs and proverbs, traditional festivals, and many other intangible cultural heritages. Fairy tales, with familiar characters like Tam and Cam, or Thach Sanh, have penetrated the subconscious of the Vietnamese people, reflecting dreams and aspirations for justice, righteousness, and happiness. These stories are not merely entertainment but also carry profound educational value, conveying lessons on morality, compassion, and the struggle between good and evil.

Proverbs and Folk Songs – The Essence of Folk Literature

Proverbs and folk songs are short, concise poems and sayings that reflect the life, emotions, and thoughts of the Vietnamese people. Folk songs about love, family, and community have become valuable lessons about humanity. Proverbs, with their conciseness and memorability, contain life experiences and profound philosophies accumulated over generations.

Traditional Festivals – The Essence of Vietnamese Culture

Traditional festivals are an indispensable part of the spiritual and cultural life of the Vietnamese people. From major festivals such as Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) and the Hung Kings Temple Festival to smaller local festivals, each festival has its own meaning, reflecting the beliefs and customs of different regions. These festivals are not only opportunities for people to play and relax but also occasions to commemorate heroes and gods, expressing gratitude to ancestors and the country.

Intangible Cultural Heritage – Needs Preservation and Promotion

Vietnam’s intangible cultural heritage, including traditional art forms such as water puppetry, Ca Tru (ceremonial singing), Hat Xam (a type of folk singing), and Don Ca Tai Tu (a type of Southern Vietnamese chamber music), are invaluable cultural assets that need to be preserved and promoted. These art forms not only reflect the essence of national culture but also serve as a bridge between generations, helping future generations understand the cultural traditions of the nation better.

Preservation and promotion of folklore

The preservation and promotion of folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. We need to actively participate in activities to preserve and promote folklore, and educate younger generations about the value of folklore. Only when we work together to protect and preserve it will the precious treasure trove of our nation’s folklore endure through time.