Exploring the Beauty of Vietnamese Folklore

Legends and Fairy Tales: Origins and Significance

Vietnamese folklore is an incredibly rich and diverse treasure trove, passed down through generations. Legends and fairy tales play a crucial role, reflecting the history, geography, and worldview of the Vietnamese people. Mythological stories like Sơn Tinh and Thủy Tinh explain natural phenomena, while fairy tales like Tấm Cám and Thạch Sanh teach lessons about good and evil, justice, and perseverance. The diversity in these stories showcases the richness of the Vietnamese people’s imagination and creativity.

Proverbs, Folk Songs, and Traditional Music: Reflections of the National Soul

Proverbs, folk songs (ca dao), and traditional music are concise forms of folk literature that contain profound meanings. Proverbs are short, pithy sayings that encapsulate the life experiences of the people. Folk songs are lyrical poems expressing people’s emotions, thoughts, and aspirations. Traditional music reflects the lives, work, and daily activities of the people. These creations not only entertain but also help preserve and promote the nation’s cultural identity.

Some Notable Examples:

• Proverbs: “Ăn quả nhớ kẻ trồng cây” (One 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): “Thân em như tấm lụa đào, phất phơ giữa chợ biết vào tay ai.” (My body is like a piece of peach silk, fluttering in the market, I don’t know whose hands it will fall into).
• Traditional Music: Hò kéo pháo, Lý cây đa, Hát Xoan…

Folk Art: A Subtle Combination of Culture and Art

Vietnamese folk art encompasses various forms, from Đông Hồ paintings and Hàng Trống paintings to various forms of sculpture, embroidery, and weaving. Each product is imbued with cultural imprints, showcasing the skill, sophistication, and creativity of the artisans. These works are not just decorative items but also valuable historical and cultural artworks.

Preserving and Promoting Folklore

In today’s world, with the rapid development of technology and cultural exchange, preserving and promoting folklore is extremely important. We need specific policies and measures to protect, preserve, and develop these precious cultural values. Educating young generations about folklore also plays a crucial role in inheriting and promoting the nation’s traditional values.