Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Origins and Formation

Vietnamese folklore is a priceless treasure, preserving the spiritual values, morals, and life experiences of the nation over thousands of years of history. It was formed and developed from the daily life of labor, production, community activities, and concepts about the universe, humanity, and society. From mysterious legends to sweet folk songs, each element reflects a unique aspect of Vietnamese culture.

Legends and Mythology: Magical Stories

Legends in Vietnam are rich with stories about national heroes, talented people, and historical events embellished with magical elements. These stories not only entertain but also educate, conveying moral lessons, patriotism, and the indomitable spirit of the nation. For example, the legends of Son Tinh and Thuy Tinh, or the story of Hoan Kiem Lake, are vivid examples of this.

Mythology in Vietnam, with its gods, demons, and supernatural world, reflects the Vietnamese view of the universe and the origin of all things. Mythological stories often explain natural and social phenomena and create a diverse and rich belief system.

Folk Songs and Proverbs: The Voice of the People

Folk songs (Ca dao) are short lyrical poems, often passed down orally through generations. Folk songs reflect the feelings, thoughts, and aspirations of the working people, from love between couples and family affection to sentiments about life and nature. The content of folk songs is diverse and rich, showing the subtlety and depth of Vietnamese emotions.

Proverbs (Tục ngữ) are short, concise sayings that summarize life experiences and philosophies of the folk. Proverbs often have an instructive nature, guiding people’s behavior in life, reflecting the wisdom and intelligence of the ancients.

Folk Arts: The Crystallization of Talent

Vietnamese folk art includes many rich forms such as: folk paintings (Dong Ho paintings, Hang Trong paintings…), water puppetry, folk music (nha nhac, quan ho…), embroidery, sculpture… Each art form has its own beauty, showing the skill, delicacy, and creative talent of the Vietnamese people.

Preservation and Promotion of Folklore

Preserving and promoting folklore is the responsibility of every Vietnamese citizen. Preserving and transmitting these cultural values not only helps future generations better understand their national origins but also contributes to enriching the treasure trove of human culture.